God’s Holiness, Silence Human Boasting

Humans tend to boast about many things: our careers, accomplishments, financial status, etc. But today, the Lord showed me through Isaiah that who we think we are and what we have can’t be compared to Who God is and His holiness.

When Isaiah saw God’s holiness, he fell on his face and realized that he was unworthy to be in the presence of the Lord Almighty. This is because God’s holiness silences his human boasting. “Woe to me! I cried. ‘I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.”

 How often do we find ourselves in situations where we are tempted to boast about our job, status, or possessions? Yet, when we come face to face with Jesus, none of this matters.

Isaiah’s vision was never about him but about God and His glory. Isaiah was aware of his uncleanness and unworthiness when he met with God. He humbled himself in God’s presence and said, “Woe to me! I cried. ‘I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.” 

When Isaiah humbled himself before the Lord, God sent seraphim to cleanse Isaiah’s lips with hot coal. “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away, and your sins atoned for (Isaiah 6:6-7). Through this act, God demonstrated to Isaiah and us that the only way we may become holy is through His mercy and grace.

What’s remarkable is that Isaiah makes no requests and expects nothing because he knows his unworthiness and uncleanliness. Yet, he discovered a merciful and forgiving God who forgives him and redirects his life. “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” Isaiah didn’t hesitate for a second. “Here am I. Send me!” All it took was a glimpse of the Lord’s holiness and mercy, and Isaiah’s life was changed completely. 

The Scripture speaks of many people whose lives have been transformed by God’s mercy and grace. I am one of those unclean, unholy people whose life has been transformed by the Lord’s mercy, love, and grace. I didn’t see God’s holiness face to face, but I was transformed by how much He loves me despite my shame and wrongdoings. God has touched my life so I can share His love, mercy, and grace with others. We are all called to share God’s love and grace with those who need it.

Friends, I don’t know what season you’re currently facing but be encouraged; your Heavenly Father loves you with unfailing love and chose you. You matter to Him. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Let His love, mercy, and grace transform your life as He has transformed mine. By beholding Him, we become like Him. 

Father, thank you for your unfailing love, mercy, and grace. Help me keep my eyes on you every moment and boast only about You and what You have done in my life. In your precious name, I thank you. Amen.