Isaiah 46: Listen and Be Saved - Springfield Baptist Church

Listen and Be Saved

11/3/2024

Listen and Be Saved

Isaiah 46:12-13

"Listen to me, you stubborn-hearted, you who are now far from my righteousness. I am bringing my righteousness near, it is not far away; and my salvation will not be delayed. I will grant salvation to Zion, my splendor to Israel."

In these closing verses of Isaiah 46, God extends a compassionate call to those who are "stubborn-hearted" and "far from my righteousness." Despite their distance, God promises to bring His righteousness and salvation near to them. This passage highlights God's mercy and His readiness to save all who turn to Him, offering hope and assurance that His deliverance is never far away.

The Stubborn Heart

God addresses those who are "stubborn-hearted," a term that refers to people who resist His guidance and correction. This stubbornness can manifest in various ways, such as pride, self-reliance, or an unwillingness to change. Yet, even in their stubbornness, God does not abandon them. Instead, He calls them to listen, to soften their hearts, and to receive His righteousness. This serves as a reminder that no matter how far we may have strayed, God is always ready to welcome us back if we turn to Him.

The Nearness of God’s Righteousness

God’s declaration, "I am bringing my righteousness near," is a powerful statement of His intention to save. It reassures us that God's righteousness and salvation are not distant or inaccessible; they are within reach. God actively seeks to draw people close to Him, offering them the opportunity to be made right with Him. This nearness of God’s righteousness is most fully realized in Jesus Christ, who brings salvation to all who believe in Him.

"Come near to God and he will come near to you." — James 4:8a

Salvation That Will Not Be Delayed

God’s promise that His "salvation will not be delayed" is a source of great hope. It emphasizes that God’s timing is perfect, and His deliverance will come at just the right moment. While we may sometimes feel that God’s help is slow in coming, this passage reassures us that His salvation is always timely. God is never late; He acts in His perfect time to fulfill His promises and bring deliverance to His people.

A Prayer for Embracing God’s Nearness

Lord, we thank You for bringing Your righteousness and salvation near to us. Help us to listen to Your call, to soften our hearts, and to embrace the salvation You offer. We pray for each person reading this, for their families, and for the challenges they may be facing. May they experience Your closeness and trust in Your perfect timing. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.