Isaiah 66:1-2 “Thus says the LORD: ‘Heaven is My throne, and earth is My footstool. Where is the house that you will build Me? And where is the place of My rest? For all those things My hand has made, and all those things exist,’ says the LORD. ‘But on this one will I look: On him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, and who trembles at My word.’”
Who will God bestow His grace, His mercy, and His favor upon? God overlooks the great and mighty who glory in their abilities and have no need of heaven’s assistance. God fixes His gaze upon those who are intimately acquainted with their human frailty and inabilities, spiritual bankruptcy, and utter dependence upon Him.
Those of a contrite spirit do not defend themselves when mocked and ridiculed for their faults or failures. They will often agree with their critic and are ready to follow in the steps of their Savior. First in speech, “He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly. (1 Peter 2:23 NLT). And then in action, “…made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant….” (Philippians 2:7)
Yet, those things which God desires come with a qualifier. It is to the one “who trembles at My word.” When you read or hear God’s Word, does it produce an inner trembling, a reverence for Him, His power, and glory? Are you filled with wonder and worship? Is your heart made tender and subdued to His will? I pray it is so!
Dear saint, immerse your life in the Word of God until, in absolute awestruck devotion, it consumes your thoughts and directs your actions. Do that, and you will be the one upon whom God’s gaze will fall.
– Pastor Jack
Click here to read all of Jack Hibbs’ Weekly Devotionals at Real Life with Jack Hibbs.
