By: Elizabeth Haarberg

More Than Going Through The Motions

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link.

“But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word.”
Isaiah 66:2 English Standard Version

God is looking for humble hearts. This verse gets straight to the point that followers who are only into performing rituals are not what God desires. He wants us to listen and answer.

“…because when I called, no one answered, when I spoke, they did not listen;”
Isaiah 66:4 English Standard Version

How often are we doing what we think God wants us to do only to be left empty or, even worse, full of ourselves? Doing good deeds and performing rituals aren’t bad. It’s the intent that’s critical. This chapter addresses clearly how God feels if we are doing those things to be seen or just going through the motions. If you struggle in this area, read Isaiah 66. It is clear what God thinks.

The good news is that God also gives an answer: humble yourself, listen, and answer God’s call.

I know people who are hyper-aware of this issue of intention and have a hard time doing anything because they’re afraid to get in the way of God. They’re afraid that what they do will appear a certain way to others. If that’s you, don’t worry. Take action anyway.

The last thing I want to do is cause someone to be afraid of their actions and question their intent. This is really between you and God. It is the Holy Spirit’s role to convict us; it’s our job to listen.

There’s a multitude of ways to practice humbling ourselves. Asking someone you’ve wronged for forgiveness, praying, serving, the list is long. Sometimes it’s getting into solitude with God and asking Him to help you. Start by simply breathing and resting in Him.

The main idea is to grow your relationship with God. Relationship is what God desires. The humbleness will come as closeness with God grows.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado