READING: Isaiah 1-4, Ephesians 1:1-2:10
If I were summarizing problems with prayer in most churches, I think I would conclude this way: (1) many believers don’t pray much at all; (2) many believers pray, but only reactively in response to problems; and (3) many believers who do pray do so out of unholy hearts. The latter is the focus of this devotion based on Isaiah 1:15.
The prophet wrote to a people who were going through the motions of their religion, but whose hearts were not in touch with God. They were doing the work of their worship system, but it was only empty and meaningless. So persistently did they live in disobedience that God had had enough of their sacrifices and rituals. And, He was not listening to their prayers: “When you spread out your hands in prayer, I will refuse to look at you; even if you offer countless prayers, I will not listen” (Isa 1:15). The reason God wouldn’t listen? Their hands were “covered with blood”—a phrase that could literally mean murder or could figuratively refer to hands soiled by sin. Either way, the people were ungodly people lifting unclean hands and speaking unheard words to a holy God.
May God help us hear these words today and pray—but do so with obedient hearts.
PRAYER: “Father, cleanse my heart, and hear my words today.”
DAILY ACTION STEP: Deal with whatever sin might hinder your prayers today.
TOMORROW’S READING: Isaiah 5-7, Ephesians 2:11-3:21
