Draw Near to God

Yesterday's reading: Zephaniah

It has listened to no voice; it has accepted no correction. It has not trusted in the Lord; it has not drawn near to its God. Zephaniah 3: 2 NRSV

Zephaniah, of course, is speaking of the city of Jerusalem. God is trying to communicate God's judgment against this city as well as surrounding countries. But Jerusalem has refused to listen to any of the prophets; it is a city who thinks it is so holy and perfect that there would never be a need to correct it. Likewise, the people of the city have refused to trust God. Because they haven't listened to God's own messengers, they don't seem to trust when God is trying to lead them. They are as far away from God as they can get.

In order to really put ourselves in the place of Jerusalem and to really hear God's words spoken to our lives, try putting your name in this verse. For example, Amelia has listened to no voice; Amelia has accepted no correction. Amelia has not trusted in the Lord; Amelia has not drawn near to her God.

I don't know about you, but in doing that I was able to really think about my level of trust, listening and closeness to God. It made me realize I am not so perfect as I would like to think. Try if for yourself!

God, we have not listened to your voice, we have not accepted your corrections. We have failed to trust in you and be near you. Forgive us, we pray. Amen.

Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims