Willing and Obedient

"Come now, and let us reason together," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land;  but if you refuse and rebel, you shall be devoured by the sword"; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken. (Isaiah 1:16-20)

We must reason with the Lord before it is too late, while His arms are still outstretched, and before we go any farther down the road toward judgment. Repentance and humility are required to enter into these talks, for we have nothing else to offer! On the other hand, the Lord has made provision for our forgiveness, our health, our wholeness, our peace and safety, and our joy. Our sins have been wiped away by the death of His Son, who lived a sinless and sacrificial life, died in our place, and rose in power and majesty. Now He is seated at the right hand of the Father with all authority in His nail-scarred hands and the Word of truth in His mouth; the same Word that echoes from Isaiah, imploring us to come to Him before night falls and it is too late.

Coming to God means turning away from all others and submitting ourselves to Him alone. Some Christians have lent themselves out to causes, ideas, and voices, and they can no longer hear the Lord who is calling them apart to Himself. The knowledge of His ways and His will must become our primary pursuit, as we present ourselves to Him daily to receive the wisdom, grace, and glory He offers freely. That is the only way to walk and live in the light, and the only way to be pleasing in His sight. God is seeking a people who will hear Him and obey — who will come to Him now, come on His terms, and come to Him through Jesus Christ. "Come now, and let us reason together," says the Lord."

Let's Pray - Father, I believe and accept the terms of my salvation, the sacrifice Jesus made on the Cross. I am eternally grateful for all that was done for me, and I will display that gratitude by worshiping and serving You all my life. Amen.