Lesson Plan

If you read yesterday’s devotion about trusting God in all things, today’s reading might have you scratching your head and saying “Whoa, wait just a minute?” Because doesn’t it seem like God is telling us to go away and not bother him?

Isaiah prophesied for almost 50 years, during the reigns of four different kings. (verse 1) No doubt he saw a variety of human behaviour and not all of it positive. These are the verses where God reveals the divine standards. It’s not that God doesn’t want us to draw near in prayer, it’s just that God doesn’t want us to waste our time-or God’s-focusing on empty gestures and meaningless rituals. When loving parents teach their children, it isn’t because they don’t love them, it’s because they love them so much and want what’s best for them.

So, instead of being discouraged by these verses let’s dwell on the wonderful fact that God wants to have a real relationship with us and teach us to be the best people we can be. That’s why God sent Jesus.

Dear God, I know I make mistakes, but I strive to trust every day that you will teach me. Amen. — DLG