To Whom Does God Look?

“But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word.” (Isa. 66:2)

God is not impressed by good looks, wealth, intelligence, education, strength, or any other trait or accomplishment we humans esteem. We strive for these things. We look to one another by comparison to see if we look better, are in better condition, have accomplished more, have more wealth, bigger houses and so on. We look at the outward appearances and accomplishments.

But God looks at the heart and He knows. He knows what is in our hearts. He knows our motives, our character and what is important to us. He knows.

This verse gives me a priority on something different than the world around me. The goal or priority of humility before God and respectfully ingesting and obeying His Word.

No matter what my circumstances, accomplishments, or talents, I do have the choice. This verse shows me what is important to God – humility, contriteness and trembling at His Word.

Maranatha,

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We Will Marvel

I read in Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians yesterday and was stopped when these words jumped off the page.

“…when he comes on that day to be glorified in his saints, and to be marveled at among all who have believed…” (2 Thess. 1:10)

Jesus, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, will be “marveled at.” I can’t imagine what that will be like but He will be a wonder, an astounding presence, and radiate majestic glory. We will be there and we will marvel. What hope, what perspective this brings.

I look forward to that Day but in the meantime, we can worship and adore Him. May I suggest that you take a few minutes to offer praise to Jesus for who He is.

Maranatha,

The Contrite and Lowly

In our world, we esteem the winner, the strong, the beautiful and the achiever. The Lord has a different value system.

“For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: “I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.” (Isa. 57:15)

Astounding that the Eternal One, the One who is holy, DWELLS with the contrite and lowly of spirit.

Are you feeling down today? Oppressed? Overwhelmed? The Lord dwells with you to revive you. This is an amazing reality.

Take a minute to pour out your heart to Him. He is near. He hears and is ready to revive your heart.

Maranatha,

My Prayer Today

David wrote Psalm 143 in a time of trouble.
His prayer then is relevant to me and perhaps you.

“Let me hear in the morning
of your steadfast love,
for in you I trust.
Make me know the way I should go,
for to you I lift up my soul.
Deliver me
from my enemies, O LORD!
I have fled to you for refuge.
Teach me to do your will,
for you are my God!
Let your good Spirit lead me
on level ground!
For your name’s sake,
O LORD,
preserve my life!
In your righteousness
bring my soul
out of trouble!”
(Psalm 143:8-11)

Take a few minutes to read and reflect on these verses. How do they apply to you?
How do they encourage you?

In a spirit of prayer to the Lord, re-read these verses making them your prayer.

Maranatha,