Many people are constantly looking for the magic formula. The perfect system that will take care of all their problems. The thing is that the formula is right before our eyes for everyone to see. What holds us back is a lack of discipline. Today in Isaiah 1:1-17, we learn a lot about the results of a lack of discipline and what is needed to get it back.

The prophet named Isaiah is giving a message from God. Charging Israel of rebelling against Him. Their religious activities are nauseating to God because they do not understand that what God wants is not just going through the motion to make it seem like they worship Him but actually internalizing His word so they do what it says.

There was corruption throughout the land and they couldn’t stay on track. They offered their sacrifices to God but He does not like their religious activity because it is only lip service. He had rather they lived disciplined lives. Learn to do right and seek justice. Take up the cause of the fatherless and plead the case of the widow (v. 17)

It’s easy to get off track and like the photo, deep-seated instincts tell us to do the wrong things like letting our anger take over or to choose the easy way out of our problems. Fortunately, God’s word leads one in the right direction and keeps one on track towards effective living.

The formula for us in current times is right before our eyes.

One Cross + Two Nails = Forgiven

It’s the application of this formula that sets many back. Following the Way of Jesus requires discipline with a composite of habits consistently carried out. The result is good character built into the lives of the people who give all the glory to the Lord.

This day with You God, we know where we want to go and how to get there. We have the road map, the formula, and the game plan to an amazing future. Keep us on track as we follow the Way. Help us to fix our eyes on the eternal rather than the worldly desires that get us off track. We surrender our lives to Jesus to abstain from worldly desires and not remain in shame. You love us even more that we love ourselves. Your love precedes our obedience but Your love from above transforms our life, so we make choices that blesses our future day by day. We will never be the same because we are citizens of the kingdom in which Jesus forever reigns. In His name we pray. Amen.

Photo Source – “Bing.” Microsoft. N.p., n.d. Web. Images >.