Taking a Look at Isaiah

“Listen! The Lord’s arm is not too weak to save you, nor is his ear too deaf to hear you call. It’s your sins that have cut you off from God. Because of your sins, he has turned away and will not listen anymore.” – Isaiah 59:1-2

            Sin is the culprit.  It is the fly-in-the-ointment. It is the one and only thing that can cause man to be separated from God forever and all time. The Bible deals with the topic a multitude of times. Once again in chapter 59 we find the Lord telling the people of Israel, and by extension, all men, women and children, that sin cannot abide with God. I’ve heard it said that God doesn’t send people to hell; they go of their own volition. In the OT people turned away from God seeking a way they felt would be less demanding. God’s way isn’t demanding; obedience is easy when you love the one seeking your devout allegiance. Devout allegiance is easy when you realize that the Lord loves you unconditionally and that everything is under his complete control.

            Scripture is extremely clear, especially in verse 2 that a person’s sin cuts off godly fellowship. God still loved and loves the Jews and he still loves you all, as well, but it’s the sin factor. The consequences of a life not lived for God can be devastating now and spill over into eternity if not forgiven.  Since “the Lord is holy, he cannot ignore, excuse or tolerate sin as (if) it didn’t matter.”^[1] 

            For those who have turned from their sins God will restore his covenant with them.  His spirit will not leave them and his words will be burned onto their hearts.  Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing! rlkeller

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.

^[1] From footnote for Isaiah 59:1-14 on p1535 in The Life Application Study Bible.