Isaiah 57:15

Isaiah 57:15 (ESV): “For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: “I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.”

God’s greatness does not distance Him from the broken; rather, it draws Him near. Though He dwells in the highest heaven, He makes His home with the humble. He delights to strengthen those who are crushed in spirit and low in heart.

Isaiah reminds the people of Israel of the heart posture that draws God near. It’s not the proud or boastful, but the lowly and contrite. When God’s people walk in humility and brokenness, His presence is near. But when they become pompous and proud, He resists them. This stands as a reminder to all: if you want God to dwell in your midst, you must be lowly and contrite.

Do you sense the presence of God in your life today? If not, perhaps it’s because humility and brokenness are lacking. God is not impressed by a “fake it till you make it” mentality. He desires hearts that are honest and surrendered before Him. We are all far from what we are called to be—yet God loves us still. Stay in that place of desperation for Him, and He will always draw near. Amen?

Father, we thank You for revealing the kind of heart You desire in us. Help us to see how utterly lost we are without You. Keep us lowly, broken, and ever in Your presence. We pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.