“Remember these things, Jacob, for you, Israel, are my servant. I have made you, you are my servant; Israel, I will not forget you. I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, for I have redeemed you.” – Isaiah 44:21-22 (NIV)
I read a recent survey stating that 89% of Americans say that they check their cellphones within 10 minutes of waking up each morning. In that same survey, 75% said that they feel uneasy when they leave their cellphones at home.
I wonder, what must God think about all this? That a portable, handheld device is given so much significance in the average American’s life, and He gets so little?
“All who make idols are nothing, and the things they treasure are worthless. Those who would speak up for them are blind; they are ignorant, to their own shame.” (44:9)
Just as God spoke through Isaiah to Israel, He speaks that same message to us today. I have made you. You are my servant. I will not forget you, I have swept away your offenses and sins as one sweeps away the morning dew. Come back to me, for I am your Creator and I have saved you.
Perhaps it’s not a cellphone. Maybe it’s a career, or a relationship, or an addiction to alcohol or drugs. Perhaps it’s social status, money, or a sinful lifestyle. Maybe it’s even pride.
Whatever it is you’re putting before God, just remember this: He created you; He created you to praise, worship, and honor Him alone. He created you to have fellowship with Him. He created you to enjoy an abundant life. He created you to be productive and fruitful in your work. He created you to serve others and to love them unconditionally. He created you to do wonderful things that please Him and bring Him glory. He created you because He loves you.
As we begin our day today, may we remember these things. Let us restore some much-needed balance in our lives. And let us never forget to Whom it is we serve, and to Whom we must put before everything else. Amen.
Former Blackout Artist 