“Authentic vs. Fake Devotion”

Isaiah 58-59 If there is one thing, both Isaiah and Jesus saw it was the fake responses of the religious leaders and the people.  God hates or “abhors dishonest scales, but an accurate weight is his delight.” [Prov 11:1] It is easy for us to point fingers, but how often are we less than genuine when it comes to our devotion towards God? How often do we go through the rituals and traditions, but our heart is someplace else? 

God’s prophet Isaiah was given these words to an unrepentant nation and the people. They were lamenting that God didn’t seem to notice – the God where are you syndrome. God answered back, you are only coming to me to get the satisfaction that I have heard you, but in reality, your heart is far from me. It is all for show. Here’s what I am looking for: you search for those who are oppressed and in need and reach out and touch them with My agape love. My ear is not too deaf to hear you. These are the same words that the seven churches in Revelation heard. “He who has an ear had better hear what the Spirit says.” [Rev.2-3]

So how do we apply this to today? James asked: What good is it if you claim to have faith but do not have works to back that faith up. God is looking for authenticity not just in word but also in deed.