The Lord Will Receive You

The call to repentance was clear, and all were invited to return. “Seek the Lord while He may be found,” the prophet pleaded; “call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” Isaiah 55:6, 7.RR 117.1

Have you wandered far from God? Have you sought to feast on the fruits of transgression, only to find them turn to ashes on your lips? And now, your plans thwarted and your hopes dead, do you sit alone and desolate? That voice comes to you distinct and clear, “Arise and depart; for this is not your rest; because it is defiled, it shall destroy.” Micah 2:10. Your Father invites you, saying, “Return to Me; for I have redeemed you.” “Come to Me. Hear, and your soul shall live.” Isaiah 44:22; 55:3.RR 117.2

Do not listen to the enemy’s suggestion to stay away from Christ until you have made yourself better, until you are good enough to come. Repeat the promise of the Savior, “The one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.” John 6:37. Tell the enemy that the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses from all sin. Make the prayer of David your own: “Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.” Psalm 51:7.RR 117.3

The prophet’s appeals to Judah were not in vain. Some turned from their idols. They learned to see love, mercy, and tender compassion in their Maker. And in the dark days that were coming, the prophet’s words were to continue bearing fruit in decided reformation. Many would behold the One altogether lovely. God would forgive their sins, and they would boast in Him alone. They would exclaim, “The Lord is our Judge, the Lord is our Lawgiver, the Lord is our King; He will save us.” Isaiah 33:22.RR 117.4

The messages Isaiah bore to those who chose to turn from their evil ways were full of comfort and encouragement:RR 117.5

“O Israel, you will not be forgotten by Me!
I have blotted out, like a thick cloud, your transgressions,
And like a cloud, your sins.
Return to Me; for I have redeemed you.” Isaiah 44:21, 22RR 117.6

“In that day you will say:
‘O Lord, I will praise You;
Though You were angry with me,
Your anger is turned away, and You comfort me. ...’
Cry out and shout, O inhabitant of Zion,
For great is the Holy One of Israel in your midst.” Isaiah 12:1-6RR 117.7