Our Scripture reading today is Isaiah 55:7-9.
Verse 7, "Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon."
This verse is written to the unsaved and it offers great hope. Just as the prodigal son in Luke 15 returned to his father and was forgiven, the prophet Isaiah gives what seems to be simple instructions: Return and be pardoned. Unfortunately, pride gets in the way and make it very difficult for many to be pardoned. No one really wants to admit they are wrong and living in sin. Prior to the return, there must be a forsaking of ways and thoughts. This means we not only return to the Lord, but we are to leave some things behind. This is a clear description of repentance.
The promise of mercy and pardon follow right behind repentance. Psalm 34:18, "O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him." Matthew Henry writes about this Isaiah 55:7, "Though our sins have been very great and very many, and though we have often backslidden and are still prone to offend, yet God will repeat his pardon, and welcome even backsliding children that return to him in sincerity."
I would like to encourage each of us to take a little more time today praying for our family member or friend who is headed for Hell. Pray that today would be the day they humble themselves, repent, and receive their eternal pardon.