Text:
“This is what the Lord says:
‘Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool.
Where is the house you will build for me?
Where will my resting place be?
Has not my hand made all these things,
and so they came into being?’ declares the Lord.
‘These are the ones I look on with favor:
those who are humble and contrite in spirit,
and who tremble at my word.’”
Isaiah 66:1–2, NIV
Humility, a contrite spirit, and reverence for God’s Word are three essential qualities for those who desire to experience God’s presence. If you long for a visitation from Him, these are the qualities you must cultivate. Let us briefly examine each one:
1. Humility (Meekness)
According to Holman’s Bible Dictionary, humility is “the personal quality of being free from arrogance and pride.”
Philippians 2:5–9 says:
“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name.”
James 4:10 adds:
“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.”
2. Contrite in Spirit
To be contrite means to feel or express genuine remorse over sin, acknowledging that one has done wrong.
Jesus illustrated this in a parable about two men who went to pray:
“Also He spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: ‘Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, “God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.” And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, “God, be merciful to me a sinner!” I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.’”
— Luke 18:9–14, NKJV
3. Trembling at God’s Word
Those who “tremble” at His Word treat it with deep reverence, obeying carefully and never taking it lightly.
As Scripture declares:
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
— 2 Timothy 3:16–17 (NKJV)
As God’s children, we must always remain teachable—willing to be instructed, corrected, and even rebuked by our Father through His Word. This is why we are warned:
“Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.”
— Hebrews 3:15, NKJV
Reflection Questions
- In what areas of my life do I struggle with pride, and how can I practice humility like Christ?
- When was the last time I came before God with a truly contrite heart?
- Do I approach God’s Word with reverence, letting it correct and guide me daily?
Prayer
Lord, give me a humble heart, free from pride. Teach me to be contrite in spirit and quick to repent when I fall short. Help me to honor and tremble at Your Word, living in obedience and reverence. May I be counted among those who receive Your favor. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Do you have a question or like someone to pray with you? please send a mail to info@j423community.com
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