December 11 – There Is Always Hope
Scripture
“Seek the Lord while you can find him.
Call on him now while he is near.
Let the wicked change their ways
and banish the very thought of doing wrong.
Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them.
Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously.”
Isaiah 55:6–7 (NLT)
Isaiah reminds us of something we easily forget. God is near. He is not distant or hiding. He is the God who is here, ready to reveal Himself to anyone who will seek Him. Jesus said the same thing: “Seek and you will find” and “Knock and the door will be opened to you.” God is not reluctant. He is simply waiting for us to turn toward Him with open hearts.
So Isaiah urges us to call on Him now. In times of confusion, fear, or need, run to the One who is always listening. He is closer than we realize, and He delights in drawing near to those who draw near to Him. A. W. Tozer once wrote, “The impulse to pursue God originates with God, but the outworking of that impulse is our following hard after Him.”¹ God Himself stirs the desire to seek Him, and He meets us as we take those steps.
Isaiah also reminds us that God is patiently waiting for those who have not yet turned to Him. His invitation is wide open. Let the wicked change their ways. Let them turn to the Lord. Why? Because He longs to show mercy. He forgives generously, fully, and freely. That is who He is. This is the same mercy He has extended to us, and it is the same mercy He desires to pour out on anyone who will come to Him.
So do not give up praying for those you love. Nobody is too far gone for the Lord to reach. Keep seeking Him for yourself. Keep believing for those who have yet to come. Our God is gracious and kind, and He desires that all people come to repentance. As long as the door of grace is open, there is hope.
Reflection
1. What area of your life is God inviting you to seek Him more intentionally today?
2. When have you experienced His nearness in a time of need?
3. Who should you continue praying for, trusting that God’s mercy is still pursuing them?
Prayer
Ask the Lord to draw your heart toward Him and to make you more aware of His nearness. Pray for those who have not yet turned to Him, trusting in His mercy and His generous forgiveness.
Footnote
¹ A. W. Tozer, The Pursuit of God, Chapter 1.