Definition: There shall no strange god be in thee; neither shalt thou worship any strange god.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 81:9 – it’s a really important message about our relationship with God. Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, it means you shouldn't worship anyone or anything other than God. Let’s unpack that a little: “There shall no strange god be…” This is the core of the verse. "Strange god" refers to any god or deity that isn’t actually God – a being that doesn’t have the same power, love, and goodness as the one who created us. It's about worshipping something that isn't true. “…in thee” This means within yourself, in your thoughts and desires. It’s not about worshiping a specific god or deity; it's about allowing something to take over your thinking, your desires, or your actions. “Neither shalt thou worship any strange god…” This is a warning. It suggests that if you allow other things – like idols, superstitions, or even human opinions – to influence your choices and desires, you’re essentially worshipping something other than God. These "strange gods" are things that aren't truly real and don't have the same authority as God. In a nutshell: The verse is urging us to remain focused on and dedicated to God alone. It’s about prioritizing God and keeping him at the center of our lives. Why is this important? The Bible says that true worship is reserved for God. If we start worshipping anything else, it's a sign that we're not truly connected with and seeking Him. Does this mean we can’t have idols or other things? Not necessarily in the way some people might interpret it. It’s more about focusing on God rather than actively building something that isn’t true. It’s about keeping our thoughts and desires aligned with His will. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this verse in a specific context (like its role in prayer or daily life)?