Helper 5

Isaiah 57:15

There is a man we know, a friend of a friend, whom we encounter a few times each year at parties. The best way I can describe him is that he is a “blow-hard.” He seems to need to be at the center of attention. He inserts himself into almost every conversation, and comes across as an expert in every subject, even when he is talking to someone who IS an expert in that subject.

There is nothing really wrong with the man. We just find him unpleasant because of his attitude. If he could tone himself down, even a little, become a bit more humble, he would be much easier to be around.

Having a pushy, arrogant, or demanding attitude with people can really put others off. The same is true of God. Isaiah has a message from God for all people. Where does God exist? What will God do?

We have seen the problems of having an arrogant attitude when approaching God in the story of the Canaanite woman (Matthew 15). Jesus wants us to call on him for help, but we need to be humble.

We have been reminded that we should desire to be in the presence of God (Psalm 42). We need to seek the Lord at all times.

Now we can see what God desires.

God is not only a god of the high and lofty places. He is not only the Almighty, everlasting Lord. He is also the God who desires to be with us, His children. But it is clear that we should be humble in His presence.

God is with those who are broken hearted, those with a broken spirit, those who earnestly seek forgiveness because they are aware they have done wrong. This is the very meaning of contrite.

We are to be contrite before God, humble and penitent. If we come to God for help with an attitude of humility and need God will lift us up. It is His desire to revive us when we are oppressed with problems and troubles. It is His desire to renew our spirits, to re-invigorate our failing hearts when we are confronted by problems.

We need to remember that we should come to the Lord in our times of trouble, but we cannot approach God with arrogance. Nor can we demand His help. Rather, we need to be contrite and trust that the Lord is eager to lift us up out of our troubles and set things right again.

DAILY CHALLENGE: What is your attitude when seeking God’s help?