“Son of man, these leaders have set up idols in their hearts. They have embraced things that will make them fall into sin. Why should I listen to their requests?” (Ezekiel 14:3)

There is an idol that no one can see outwardly, but is just as surely built up and worshiped in the human heart. This idol of the heart comes between us and God. It causes a religious self-delusion and makes one susceptible to sin. It makes prayer ineffective. Remove the thing that has stolen your heart and taken first place ahead of loving God! Make God your first love.