August 1, 2015: SOAP #2067:

Scripture: Isaiah (NIV) 66:1 This what the LORD says: “Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Where is the house you will build for me? Where will my resting place be? 2 Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being?” declares the LORD. “This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at my word.”

Observation: If we could build the most glorious dwelling place for God, it would be a poor comparison to the dwelling place God has built for man. It is impossible for man to use his abilities to impress God. So where on earth does God desire to live/dwell? It is in the heart of people with three characteristics. 1. It is in the heart of the person who is humble—one who respects God as the final authority and readily accepts the role of servant. 2. It is in the contrite heart—one that is easily corrected and does not take offence when corrected. 3. It is in the heart that has a very high regard for what God says. God enjoys being with people who listen to Him and do what He says.

Application: It is important for me to walk humbly under the Lordship of Jesus. It is important not to become offended, but to even welcome correction. It is important for me to be faithful in reading the Bible and to be listening throughout the day for what God would speak to my heart.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, for me to grow in these three characteristics, I need your help. Teach me, lead me, and train me to become proficient in these areas of my life. Amen