A Clean Start

Dawn Waggoner / Executive Administrative Assistant

I was reading in Isaiah recently and was struck by a passage in chapter 1 (verses 16-20):

“Wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight; stop doing wrong. Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow. “Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land; but if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword.” For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.” Isaiah 1:16-20

The Lord is telling the people, “If (they) are willing and obedient, (they) will eat the good things of the land.” As I read the passage, I find myself wondering why it is so hard to be willing and obedient?!? Especially if it leads to good things!

He goes on to say, “but if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword.” That seems pretty harsh, but we know that the Lord tells us these things for our good. He knows if we resist and rebel it will lead us farther from Him, the place that gives us peace and joy.

Being willing and obedient are worth the time, effort, and discipline. May He continue to help us pursue Him and His will each day.