I was deeply challenged by Isaiah 55 during my quiet time this week. It says in verse 1, “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat!” What a privilege to receive such a divine invitation. It should be an irresistible offer. God is offering the bread of life and living water free of charge!
Yet knowing His people will spurn it, God advises us in verses 2 and 3, “Why spend money on what is not bread… Listen, listen to me… Give ear and come to me”.
God then reasons with us, and presents His case for drawing near to Him.
1. He Is Near
Verse 6 says, “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.” Listen to that still small voice in your heart as God prompts you to draw close to Him. If you allow the burdens and busyness of your daily life distract you from God, that voice will begin to diminish as your heart is cluttered with the things of this world. So, yield to God’s invitation because He is near.
2. He Is Wise
Verses 8 and 9 give us the second reason to draw near to God, “‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord. ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.’” Stop trusting in ourselves and what the world has to offer. Only God can give us the wisdom we need to restore order in our lives such that it brings blessing to ourselves and others.
3. He Never Fails
Verses 10 to 13 then show us that His words will always be fulfilled, and His purpose and blessings will flow into our lives if we come to him and drink of Him. He never fails, and that is the third reason why we must draw near to Him. The result is found in verse 12, “You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.”
So, what are you waiting for? Come now and draw near to Him. Drink of His love, His promises, His power and His grace!
- Senior Pastor Lawrence Khong