“I have revealed and saved and proclaimed — I, and not some foreign god among you. You are My witnesses,” declares the Lord, “that I am God.” – Isaiah 43:12 (NIV)
In Isaiah 43:12, God reminds us of His unique position as the one true God Who has revealed, saved, and proclaimed His power among us. He emphasises that no foreign god has done these things. This serves as a powerful reminder to keep our focus and worship solely on Him as true disciples.
In our modern lives, “foreign gods” can take many forms. One common example is work. When we prioritise work for the sake of money and material gain, we may inadvertently serve “mammon” instead of God. Jesus warned us about this in Matthew 6:24 (NIV): “…You cannot serve both God and money,” He said. Foreign gods can also include relationships, assets such as cars or houses, or an important title that we currently hold and place higher than God.
True worship, however, involves dedicating our work and efforts to God, using our talents and resources to help others and glorify Him. When our work becomes a ministry that serves others, we are worshipping God.
God expects us to provide evidence of our faith through our actions. Isaiah 43:21-27 highlights how the people of Israel failed to honour God with their sacrifices and offerings. Instead, they burdened Him with their sins. God calls us to review our past and argue our case together with Him, seeking His forgiveness and striving to live righteously.
When we worship God faithfully, He promises to be with us and guide us. Isaiah 43:1-6, 19-21 reassures us of His presence and His plans to do new things in our lives. He formed us for Himself so that we may proclaim His praise.
Prayer
Lord, help me to recognise and turn away from the “foreign gods” in my life. May I serve You wholeheartedly, dedicating my work and efforts to Your glory. Thank You for Your forgiveness and the promise of Your presence, in Jesus’s name. Amen.
Read: Deuteronomy 6:14-15; Jeremiah 25:6
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 6:20-29; Mark 12:28-44; Leviticus 13
