In Isaiah 55 God lets His people know of His desire that the people return to Him to find salvation and forgiveness. And just in case the people have questions about the Lord’s willingness to receive and forgive, He says to the people:
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9)
Even though human beings are made in the image of God, we are not the same as Him. His ways are higher. His thoughts are higher. There are times when we rightfully doubt the intentions of others. Or a person’s ability or willingness to fulfil a commitment they’ve made. Here we are reminded that God is different. He is perfect. He is holy.
The invitation for Israel in Isaiah 55 is the same for us today. To turn to God and come to Him for salvation and forgiveness of sin. He is the God of grace and abundant mercy, most clearly seen in how He gave His Son Jesus for us. We wouldn’t have thought to work a plan of salvation like that!
I suppose we can reduce this to a question of trust. In times of confusion, doubt, hardship or fear, will you trust that God knows and sees the way forward? Will you trust that He is working for your good even when you don’t understand? Will you continue to love and obey Him, knowing you can rest in the knowledge that His ways and thoughts are higher than yours?
He is generous, loving, perfect and wise. He’s inviting you to come to Him.
Revelation 19:4 (NIV 1984)
The twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God, who was seated on the throne. And they cried: “Amen, Hallelujah!”