How Do I Respond to God?
"How do we respond to God?" This question is pivotal for anyone seeking to deepen their faith and understanding of Christianity. Through the lens of Isaiah's encounter with God, let's delve into the appropriate responses to God's holiness, majesty, and grace.
The Importance of Our Perception of God
What Do You Think About When You Think About God?
A.W. Tozer's quote, "The most important thing about you is what you think about when you think about God," set the stage for our discussion. This series has aimed to clarify our understanding of God by addressing fundamental questions: Does God exist? What is God's name? Does God still speak? Is God good? These questions help us form a clearer picture of who God is.
Responding to God's Holiness
How Should We Respond to God's Holiness?
Isaiah's vision of God in Isaiah 6 provides a powerful example of how to respond to God's holiness. Isaiah saw the Lord high and exalted, with the train of His robe filling the temple and seraphim calling out, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty." This vision left Isaiah in awe, a response that should be mirrored in our own lives.
What Does It Mean to Be in Awe of God?
Being in awe of God means recognizing His majesty, power, and holiness. It's a mix of reverence, respect, fear, and wonder. When was the last time you were truly in awe of something? This feeling should be a regular part of our relationship with God.
The Necessity of Repentance
Why Is Repentance Important?
Isaiah's immediate response to seeing God was one of repentance. He cried out, "Woe to me! I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips." This reaction highlights the importance of recognizing our own sinfulness in the light of God's holiness.
How Do We Repent?
Repentance involves turning away from our sins and turning towards God. It's not just a one-time event but a continual process. When we see God for who He truly is, we see ourselves for who we truly are, leading us to repentance.
Embracing God's Forgiveness
What Happens When We Repent?
When Isaiah repented, a seraphim touched his lips with a live coal, saying, "Your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for." This symbolizes the forgiveness and cleansing that God offers us. Through Jesus' sacrifice, we can receive this forgiveness without the need for a burning coal.
How Does God's Forgiveness Impact Us?
God's forgiveness is a continual invitation. No matter how many times we fail, we can always turn back to Him and receive His grace. This ongoing forgiveness should inspire us to live a life of repentance and gratitude.
Saying Yes to God's Call
How Do We Respond to God's Call?
After experiencing God's holiness and forgiveness, Isaiah's response was, "Here am I. Send me!" This enthusiastic "yes" should be our response to God's call in our lives. Whether it's serving, giving, or simply following His lead, our answer should always be yes.
What Is God Calling You to Do?
Reflect on what areas of your life you need to say yes to God. It could be serving in your community, joining a small group, or even getting baptized. Whatever it is, respond with a wholehearted yes.
Life Application
How Can You Apply This Sermon to Your Life?
This week, challenge yourself to:
1. **Stand in Awe of God**: Take time to reflect on God's majesty and holiness. Let it fill you with awe and wonder.
2. **Repent Regularly**: Identify areas in your life where you need to turn away from sin and turn towards God. Make repentance a daily practice.
3. **Say Yes to God**: Consider what God is calling you to do and respond with a willing heart. Whether it's a small step or a big leap, say yes to His leading.
1. **Stand in Awe of God**: Take time to reflect on God's majesty and holiness. Let it fill you with awe and wonder.
2. **Repent Regularly**: Identify areas in your life where you need to turn away from sin and turn towards God. Make repentance a daily practice.
3. **Say Yes to God**: Consider what God is calling you to do and respond with a willing heart. Whether it's a small step or a big leap, say yes to His leading.
Questions to Reflect On
1. When was the last time you were truly in awe of God?
2. Are there areas in your life where you need to repent and turn back to God?
3. What is God calling you to do, and how can you respond with a wholehearted yes?
By reflecting on these questions and applying these principles, you can deepen your relationship with God and live a life that honors Him.
2. Are there areas in your life where you need to repent and turn back to God?
3. What is God calling you to do, and how can you respond with a wholehearted yes?
By reflecting on these questions and applying these principles, you can deepen your relationship with God and live a life that honors Him.
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