Isaiah 17:10a “For you have forgotten the God of your salvation and have not remembered the rock of your refuge.”

WHERE IS HE?

You have probably heard the old adage, “Gone, but not forgotten.” Well, it seems today that God is forgotten, but let me promise you – He is NOT gone. He is still there. He hasn’t gone anywhere. However, everywhere you look it seems He has been forgotten. Our nation has kicked Him out of every place – schools, court houses, and even in some churches.

Why do we treat God that way and then call to Him in times of distress? Take for instance this week. We have a massive hurricane bearing down on the east coast of Florida. People are asking for prayer. Many of those would not even think of prayer on most days, but bring in a storm and they are on their knees. Don’t misunderstand my words. We need to pray. I truly believe God allows these kinds of events to wake us up. But praying just to pray doesn’t cut it. God requires repentance and remorse. He demands holiness and surrender.

TEACHING MOMENT

This is a perfect lesson for our children. We need to teach them the importance of praying at all times. But we need to teach them that we first have to confess that we are sinners in need of salvation. We need to ask the Lord Jesus in our hearts. We need to surrender to His will. Then and only then can the God of all creation begin to work in our lives. If our children want the Lord to bless them they must turn to Him in obedience. Through the river of obedience (surrender) flows blessings.

I am as guilty as the rest. I often pray habitually without truly confessing my filthiness and flesh. Father, forgive me! Cleanse me! Purify me! Wash me whiter than snow! Then Father, let me be Your vessel to reach a lost and dying world.

Will you pray that prayer with me today? Oh, how He wants to hear from you.