Isaiah 65:2 “I spread out my hands all the day to a rebellious people, who walk in a way that is not good, following their own devices;”

These final chapters of Isaiah are filled with Isaiah’s view of the people who are in trouble with God and a view of God who will come to the rescue of those who will turn to him. The people have not been obedient but have been rebellious. They have sought other gods, and now they are paying the price. In verse six, Isaiah writes, “I will not keep silent, but I will repay;” The prophet is speaking for God. Sin and rebellion have consequences, and God is the one who takes care of the consequences.

But notice verse two. God’s hands are outspread. He doesn’t want men to perish but to come to repentance. All the day is a way of saying that God is always ready to accept repentance. If they will turn from their wicked ways, God will accept them, and things will change. Bad will be turned to good. Those who turn will eat and drink and be happy, but those who refuse will cry out in pain (vv 13,14).

Task for Today: Even today, God’s hands are outstretched. Even today, God calls out, “Here I am, here I am…” (v. 1). Whatever your past contains, it will be forgiven, and you will eat and drink and know joy as a child of God. Don’t ignore His call, His open arms.