Isaiah 65:1 “I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, ‘Here am I, here am I.’”
The words long suffering and steadfast come to mind as descriptions for God in this chapter. His compassion, even for “those who did not ask, those who did not seek,” is clearly visible. He is a God of love. He has a heart for all.
Isaiah 65:2 “All day long I have held out my hands to an obstinate people, who walk in ways not good, pursuing their own imaginations—“
The beginning of this passage sets up the question: If God is so loving, so steadfast, to the obstinate, to those who pursue their own imaginations, what’s He like for those who actively seek Him? Verse 24 provides the answer: “Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.”
Isaiah 65:3 “…a people who continually provoke me to my very face, offering sacrifices in gardens and burning incense on altars of brick….”
Lord, Often in my fleshly, human failings, I am the obstinate one, the one who is not seeking, who is pursuing my own imagination instead of pursuing You. Forgive me. Thank You that even in my obstinance, You reveal Yourself to me whenever I seek You. Thank You that even in my failings, I can cling to the promise in verse 24. Help me to be more like You as I try to glorify Your name and comfort Your people. Amen.
Isaiah 65:24 “Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.”
Have a blessed day.