"Listen to Me, you stubborn-minded, Who are far from righteousness. I bring near My righteousness, it is not far off; And My salvation will not delay. And I will grant salvation in Zion, And My glory for Israel." Isaiah 46:12-13 God's patience and desire are profoundly revealed in this passage. At the start, His plea is for us to "listen" to His voice. His call will come to us, but we dare not attempt to predict its tone or timing. It goes forth to the believer and the scornful alike. The Holy Spirit speaks to each in the most judicious and appropriate fashion, such that all are without excuse, whether like-minded or stubborn-minded. Jesus especially calls those who are far from righteousness, those who have no future without Him in control. It is the sick, after all, who have need of a physician. True, He loves those who have yielded to Him with an immeasurable love, but He has a burning desire born of His Father's command, to save those who may yet come to Him still. His desire for you so compels His soul, that He brings near His righteousness to woo you with its heavenly fragrance. The aroma is as sweet to some as it is offensive to others, but Jesus must risk an offense and draw as near as He dare. He can not wait for us to take the initiative in His direction -- He moves towards us; His righteousness comes near. Why does He take this tack? Because of the ultimate and singular reward -- the salvation of the Cross for all who forsake all for intimacy with Jesus. He shows Himself at close range, and if you are willing to look into His eternal gaze, to search the depth of His eyes, His salvation is ready in an instant, in the "twinkling of an eye," and He will make it yours. |
God's Nearness A Devotion The Goodsoil Discipleship Ministry By Bro. Andy Madonio October 8, 2000 |
