READING: Isaiah 56-60, 1 Thessalonians 2:17-4:18
I wonder how many people who are not really committed to God still go through the motions of Christianity every week. I suspect some of them do “religious things” that believers are supposed to do, yet their personal walk with God is not strong. They rely on their activity rather than on a committed relationship with God.
That’s what the Hebrews were doing in today’s Old Testament reading. They were fasting—but God was ignoring their efforts. The people assumed their fasting would obligate God to hear them, but it did not. Why? Because they were fasting while also still living in sin. They were denying themselves food while still quarreling, mistreating others, and ignoring God’s commands. It’s no wonder, then, that God did not hear their prayers (Isa 59:1-2).
The fasting God demanded, however, would be accompanied by repentance, obedience, and concern for others. Their religious rituals would not be disconnected from their relationship with their Creator. He is, after all, the One who would be their “everlasting light” (Isa 60:19).
PRAYER: “Father, show me any place where I’m simply going through the motions.”
DAILY ACTION STEP: Plan to fast one day next week – but also repent of any ongoing sin.
TOMORROW’S READING: Isaiah 61-66, 1 Thessalonians 5