EGW WritingsIsaiah 55
Ellen G. White · Page 1 of 2
Read Isaiah 55 in the BibleIsaiah 55:1-2
Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 50—Come and Seek and Find
1SM 333.2
Coming to Christ does not require severe mental effort and agony; it is simply accepting the terms of salvation that God has made plain in His Word. The blessing is free to all. The invitation is, “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness” (Isaiah 55:1, 2).That I May Know Him
Partakers of Christ, April 11
TMK 107.4
If Christ is to you as a valuable treasure, if you find in Him your greatest satisfaction, if He is prized and cherished above all others, if you regard everything else as loss that you may win Him, you are eating of His flesh and drinking of His blood and are becoming conformed to His image. Those who hunger and thirst after righteousness will be filled. The invitation is: “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? ... eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness” (Isaiah 55:1, 2)....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 89, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 89, 1898, par. 10
Before Christ clothed His divinity with humanity and came to our world, God sent this message through Noah, Enoch, Seth, and Methusaleh. Lot in Sodom bore the message, and a race of messengers proclaimed the coming One. But at this time the message is to be proclaimed everywhere. Says the prophet Isaiah, “Ho everyone that thirsteth, come ye to the waters; and he that hath no money, come ye, but and eat. Yea, come buy wine and milk without money and without price. Hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good; and let your soul delight itself in fatness.” [Isaiah 55:1, 2.]Isaiah 55:1-3
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 114, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 114, 1905, par. 16
“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not?” [Isaiah 55:1, 2.]20LtMs, Ms 114, 1905, par. 17
If we will invest in God’s mining stock, the return is sure. He says, “Hearken diligently unto Me, and eat that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” [Verses 2, 3.] Please read this whole chapter.Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 18—“Go Into the Highways and Hedges”
COL 233.1
In these suffering ones we are to see those whom Christ came to save. His invitation to them is “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.... Hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live.” Isaiah 55:1-3.COL 235.1
The command given in the parable, to “compel them to come in,” has often been misinterpreted. It has been regarded as teaching that we should force men to receive the gospel. But it denotes rather the urgency of the invitation, and the effectiveness of the inducements presented. The gospel never employs force in bringing men to Christ. Its message is “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters.” Isaiah 55:1. “The Spirit and the bride say, Come.... And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Revelation 22:17. The power of God’s love and grace constrains us to come.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 43, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 43, 1898, par. 12
“Ho, everyone that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money: come, come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which satisfieth not? Hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live: and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” [Isaiah 55:1-3.] Read also Isaiah 6, 7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 172, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 172, 1904, par. 14
“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” [Isaiah 55:1-3.]Isaiah 55:1-5
Prophets and Kings
Chapter 58—The Coming of a Deliverer
PK 696.3
“Incline your ear, and come unto Me:Hear, and your soul shall live;
And I will make an everlasting covenant with you,
Even the sure mercies of David.” Isaiah 55:1-3.
PK 696.4
To Israel the promise was made: “Behold, I have given Him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people. Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for He hath glorified thee.” Verses 4, 5.Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]
The Everlasting Covenant
1MR 120.3
“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Behold, I have given Him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people. Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee, because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for He hath glorified Thee” (Isaiah 55:1-5).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 137, 1909
Lodi, California
November 13, 1909
Fragment only; not on file.
Isaiah 55:1-7
Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce
Chapter 20—A Long-Standing Adventist and His Mistress
TSB 140.2
The Lord has said, “Come now, and let us reason together: ... though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool” [Isaiah 1:18]. “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near: 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” [Isaiah 55:6, 7]. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us” [1 John 1:9, 10].TSB 142.3
Jesus, Only Hope of Sinners—The bewitching power of Satan has been upon you. But make no delay; Jesus is at the right hand of God and mercy still lingers. “Come now,” says the Lord, “and let us reason together; ... though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool” [Isaiah 1:18]. Yes, Jesus is the sinner’s only hope. “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money (no goodness, no righteousness, nothing to recommend him to God); come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price” [Isaiah 55:1].TSB 143.1
Cannot you come just now, just as you are, saying, “In my hand no price I bring, simply to Thy cross I cling”? “Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David” [Verses 2, 3]....To Be Like Jesus
All Who Repent Will Be Forgiven and Accepted, December 31
BLJ 383.1
Ho! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat. Yes, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Isaiah 55:1, NKJV.BLJ 383.5
Whoever under the reproof of God will humble the soul with confession and repentance, as did David, may be sure that there is hope for him or her. Whoever will in faith accept God’s promises will find pardon. The Lord will never cast away one truly repentant soul. He has given this promise: “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me” (Isaiah 27:5). “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” (Isaiah 55:7).—Patriarchs and Prophets, 726.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 76a, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 76a, 1900, par. 10
“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money, come ye, buy and eat, yea come, buy wine and oil without money and without price.” [Isaiah 55:1.]15LtMs, Ms 76a, 1900, par. 12
“Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee. Seek ye the Lord while he may be found; call ye upon him while he is near; 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.” [Verses 2-7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 229, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 229, 1902, par. 34
Oh, He had taken humanity. He could not die unless He had taken humanity; and He came to yield up His life for your transgression. He bore the sins of the whole world, that the world should believe on Him, that He could come and take away their sin, and in its place what would He put? Oh, He would put His righteousness; He would put His salvation; He would put His peace. Oh, He would give them to drink of the waters of life. “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.” [Isaiah 55:1.] Now they can come; they can drink if they will. The choice is given them, that they may have life, everlasting life, in the kingdom of glory.17LtMs, Ms 229, 1902, par. 41
The day is coming when you will want a Protector. The day of God is right upon us, the day when the plagues of God are coming upon our earth everywhere, and we want you to be ready. That is why we are here to ask you if you will not seek the Lord. He says, “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.” “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” [Isaiah 55:7; 1:18.]Steps to Christ
Chapter 6—Faith and Acceptance
SC 49.2
It is peace that you need—Heaven’s forgiveness and peace and love in the soul. Money cannot buy it, intellect cannot procure it, wisdom cannot attain to it; you can never hope, by your own efforts, to secure it. But God offers it to you as a gift, “without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1. It is yours if you will but reach out your hand and grasp it. The Lord says, “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” Isaiah 1:18. “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you.” Ezekiel 36:26.SC 53.1
God does not deal with us as finite men deal with one another. His thoughts are thoughts of mercy, love, and tenderest compassion. He says, “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.” “I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins.” Isaiah 55:7; 44:22.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 54a, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 54a, 1898, par. 12
“Behold, I have given him for a witness unto the people, a leader and commander to the people. Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee. Seek ye the Lord while he may be found; call ye upon Him while He is near: 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.” [Isaiah 55:1-7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 54, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 54, 1898, par. 17
“Behold, I have given him for a witness to the people, a leader and an commander to the people. Behold thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel, for he hath glorified thee. Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy ..., and unto our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:1-7.]Isaiah 55:1-9
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 1d, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 1d, 1890, par. 2
The bewitching power of Satan has been upon you. But make no delay; Jesus is at the right hand of God and mercy still lingers. “Come,” says the Lord, “and let us reason together, though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be as crimson, I will make them like wool.” [Isaiah 1:18.] Yes, Jesus is the sinner’s only hope. “Ho every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money (no goodness, no righteousness, nothing to recommend him to God) come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk, without money and without price.” [Isaiah 55:1.]6LtMs, Lt 1d, 1890, par. 5
“Wherefore do you spend money for that which is not bread? And you labor for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear and come unto me; hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” [Verses 2, 3.]6LtMs, Lt 1d, 1890, par. 6
“Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near; 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. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord; for as the heavens are higher than the earth so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:6-9. “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy: I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” Isaiah 57:15. I beseech you to come to God with contrition of soul. Break this hellish work that you have been carrying on, make decided movements now before it shall be forever too late.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 34, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 34, 1900, par. 33
The time has come for the renunciation of all self-confidence. The time has come to follow the Lord’s way. He has given instruction for all who will be guided by Him, who have faith in His Word and courage to go forward. God calls upon those who have walked in paths of their own choosing to return to Him. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found; call ye upon him while he is near: 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. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” [Isaiah 55:6-9.]15LtMs, Ms 34, 1900, par. 45
Soon there is to be trouble all over the world. It becomes every one to seek to know God. We have no time to delay. With earnestness and fervor the message must be given: “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money: come ye, buy wine and milk without money and without price.” [Isaiah 55:1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 109, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 109, 1896, par. 3
“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money, and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto me; hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near. 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. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” [Isaiah 55:1-3, 6-9.]11LtMs, Lt 109, 1896, par. 14
I have a message for you this morning. Christ is waiting patiently for your return to Him. Make no delay to seek the Lord while He may be found; “call ye upon him while he is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.] No longer grieve the Holy Spirit by remaining in darkness. You need to feel the power of Bible Religion—a work wrought in the heart by the power of the Spirit of God. Satan is spreading a net for your feet, and your only safety is in keeping close to the side of Christ. You cannot build up a character fit for the kingdom of heaven on your past experience. You must come out of yourself, and receive the righteousness of Christ. Self must be crucified, and when self is dead, you will be alive unto God. Unless man looks away from himself to Christ, sin will give him no relief; but Christ is the divine physician, the soul-restorer. By yielding yourself to His control, you will have no desire to be harsh or over-bearing.Isaiah 55:1-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 208, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 208, 1906, par. 28
“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.” [Isaiah 55:1.]21LtMs, Lt 208, 1906, par. 29
Read and study the whole of the fifty-fifth chapter of Isaiah.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 126, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, par. 17
Verses 13-17; Isaiah 55:1. You see there are conditions. You are to hunger and thirst for righteousness. Put away everything like foolishness that will distract your attention so that your grasp may be on the world. Teach your children the way of the Lord.24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, par. 18
Verses 1, 2. You need not look after the indulgences that the world gives. God calls that we shall go a work for Him, that the impression of the Spirit of God may be made upon all with whom we associate.24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, par. 19
Verses 3-5. It is not to sit down in your churches, and hear the minister teaching Sabbath after Sabbath, and working all the time, and you doing nothing. Every one of you are to be ministers of righteousness.24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, par. 20
Verse 5. Now you see what God proposes to do. Verse 6. What more can you ask for, if you will comply with the conditions?24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, par. 21
Verses 8-13. Now here are other chapters that I will not attempt to bring out now. I want to come right to the fifty-eighth chapter.Loma Linda Messages
E. G. White to J. A. Burden, May 14, 1905 (B. 139 ’05)
LLM 94.2
Let us make straight paths for our feet. The Lord will not leave those who love Him and keep His commandments to be (152) spoiled by the enemy. A short work will the Lord do upon the earth, and He will stir His people mightily. A great work is to be done. Let us read and study the fifty-fifth and fifty-sixth chapters of Isaiah; for they contain wonderful encouragement, and the Lord wants us to bring all the uplifting possible to His people.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 52, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 52, 1900, par. 37
The work of presenting the warning message to our world is a great and solemn work. The world has a right to know why we believe as we do. The camp meetings afford opportunity for giving the information they desire. This work is plainly foretold in Isaiah. See chapters 41, 42, 43, 49, [and] 55-58. This is the work to be done.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 48, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 48, 1900, par. 1
“Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God. Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and thou takest no knowledge?” Isaiah 58:1-3. In this connection, read Exodus 31:12-18. Isaiah 56:1-18 [1-8?], Isaiah 55.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 139, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 139, 1905, par. 7
Let us seek the Lord while He may be found and call upon Him while He is near. “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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]20LtMs, Lt 139, 1905, par. 8
Let us make straight paths for our feet. The Lord will not leave those who love Him and keep His commandments to be spoiled by the enemy. A short work will the Lord do upon the earth, and He will stir His people mightily. A great work is to be done. Let us read and study the fifty-fifth and fifty-sixth chapters of Isaiah; for they contain wonderful encouragement, and the Lord wants us to bring all the uplifting possible to His people.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 354, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 354, 1905, par. 9
The burden of souls should be felt keenly by all who claim to be Seventh-day Adventists. Christ’s work—who has undertaken it? Christ has given Himself, His whole being. He was rich in the heavenly courts. Ask Isaiah, “Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in His apparel, travelling in the greatness of His strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save. Wherefore art Thou red in Thine apparel, and Thy garments like him that treadeth in the winefat? I have trodden the winepress alone; and of the people there was none with Me.” Isaiah 63:1-3. Read the whole chapter, and (Isaiah 55), the whole chapter.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 364, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 364, 1907, par. 7
Yesterday we had a thundershower at the time appointed for me to speak in the assembly hall on the hill. I was well wrapped up and taken in a wheel chair to the place of meeting. The Lord helped me in speaking from the fifty-fifth, fifty-sixth, and fifty-eighth chapters of Isaiah. The Lord is sustaining me wonderfully, for which I praise His holy name.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 366, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 366, 1907, par. 3
In the afternoon I spoke again to a large congregation. Elder Reaser opened the service with prayer, and after he had prayed I offered a petition to God. O how my soul yearned after Him! My heart was deeply burdened as I thought of how rapidly time was passing and how little understanding many seem to have of what needs to be done in right lines. I read the fifty-fifth, fifty-sixth, and fifty-eighth chapters of Isaiah. The Lord gave me strength to speak distinctly, while I made the application of these chapters to our own experience. At the close of my remarks, the congregation sang with good effect, “The Lost Sheep.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 374, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 374, 1907, par. 8
In the afternoon of the same day, I spoke again to a large congregation from the fifty-fifth, fifty-sixth, and fifty-eighth chapters of Isaiah. I felt a heavy burden resting on my soul as I opened before the people assembled the necessity of our arousing ourselves to give the last note of warning to save a perishing world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 131, 1909
Elgin, Illinois
August 8, 1909
Previously unpublished. Incomplete.
24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 1
The 55th chapter of Isaiah: “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread?” [Verses 1, 2.]24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 2
Can we answer that question? All the indulgences which are tearing down the human being that God has created, false, poisonous things that are put in their lips, just consider it: tearing themselves to pieces, working against God, enfeebling the mind that it cannot discern sacred things. You cannot afford it.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 3
“Wherefore do you spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not?” [Verse 2.] Now, your soul and your body are to go in harmony, and whatever light there is in the Word of God that shall give you instruction in regard to keeping yourselves in the very best condition of life and health, it is your duty to follow, to cut off everything in the line of indulgences and not eat of those things that satisfy not. There are things that create an appetite—tobacco, tobacco-smoking, and the taking of intoxicating liquors—poison, poison, the whole of it is. And yet here we tear ourselves to pieces, many do, and then complain against God, what He makes us suffer so for.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 4
You just be obedient children to God and keep His law and you will find that you will have strength of body and muscle and clearness of brain to distinguish between right and wrong, between truth and error; and what we want is a living daily experience in the knowledge of the will and ways of God. And when we have this, let me tell you, there will be very many less places that have not been worked than there are now.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 5
We see places where we know, as we look, that they should be worked—every place has not been worked. Everyone that hath the knowledge of the truth is to appreciate it and to so express it in character, in words, in walks, that others shall take knowledge of you that you have been with Jesus, and you have learned of Him that walked the earth in sorrow and humbleness of mind, and yet with gladness of spirit because He could be a living example to all that became acquainted with Him. And what we want is the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. We want to follow on that we may know Him, that His going forth is prepared as the morning.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 6
Here the thirsty are called: verse 1. What is the only price? Obedience to the will of the benefactor. “Wherefore do you spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not,” that which is weakening the physical strength so that you cannot appreciate the spiritual?24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 7
We want now to awake. We have got but a little time now. Satan is working with all the deceivableness of unrighteousness to make people depart from the truth, but we cannot afford it. It is the truth we want on every point, and we want to live the truth, to speak the truth in love, and we want every day to see someone that we can help and bless.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 8
We are God’s family; we are redeemed by one Saviour. It is one life that is given to save every one of you who is before me today, and therefore should we not have a living interest in those that are perishing all around us and cannot discern between righteousness and error which is death?24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 9
We want life, life-giving principles. We want to live it in the home. We want to carry it with us wherever we go. We want to save every penny that is possible to be saved from needless indulgences. What for? Why, that these publications can be obtained. Light can be sent to those in foreign countries and far-off nations that we have been trying to educate through the various means of our publications and of our sending missionaries. All this takes money, and you should have your contributions in your houses, your contribution boxes, and teach your children, in the place of spending their means for indulgences which they do not need, to put it in their boxes and contribute, so that the truth may be carried to those that know it not.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 10
Verse 2. “Eat ye that which is good.” That is so that you may reason from cause to effect that it will produce no injury to brain, bone or muscle, and then you will have clear discernment to understand the truth in its beauty and in its force and your prospect for eternal life you may make yourself. You are making your prospect every day either for or against the truth.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 11
Now may the Lord help us to understand our physical system is ours to keep in excellent condition, that we shall not fail nor be discouraged, that we shall not lose our life untimely through selfish indulgences.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 12
We want to remember we are laborers together, together with God. Well now, if He employs us in this world, we must walk to the point. “Hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.” Now that is spiritually. You are to know what is truth. You are to know out of the Word what God has given you that you may cherish it, that you may love it, that you may obey it. Why? Because you have a soul to save, and you have other souls to save when you understand how to save your own soul by obedience to the commandments of God.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 13
Verse 2. Why? Because you are feeding on the Word of life and angels are right around you to make the due impression upon the human heart. The angels of God are in this meeting today. It is the angels of God that are trying to make impressions upon human mind whenever discourses are given.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 14
“Let your soul delight itself in fatness.” Your soul; yes, it is eating and drinking and dressing, that you can accomplish a work that no one outside of your family can accomplish, and God helps. “Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear and your soul shall live.” Now here is a promise that you are to bring to God when you comply with the conditions: “And I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” [Verse 3.] Now you study the Word and you will understand what that means.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 15
Verses 4, 5. “And nations,” now mark these words, “that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee.”24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 16
He hath opened your understanding. It is the Bible that is our educator. We are to study the Word faithfully and carry it out explicitly.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 17
(Repetition of verse 5.) Now we have had an opportunity to see it when we were in our large camp meeting at Washington; there they came from foreign countries—nice, intelligent looking people to be introduced to the workers, and we were very thankful to speak with them. They came to get all that we have and carry it away, and I thank the Lord our God they had something to carry.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 18
Verses 6, 7. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found,” etc. Will we do it? or will we seek our own convenience and follow our own inclination and do what we please with our means and not be laborers together with God? Gad has entrusted means in your hands, and how in the world can the people have the truth unless every one of us shall have a spirit of sacrifice?24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 19
Verse 7. “Abundantly pardon.” Verses 8, 9.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 20
Through sanctification of the truth of God right in this Word your will understand it yourself, and will be brought into that position that you will see that you can reach many souls that cannot understand. Why? Because they have been delving all their lives to obtain something in this life that they think will bring them high recognition in the world. Well now, what does God offer us? That life which measures with the life of God, that life which is immortal. Isn’t that enough? Will you not put your whole mind and soul into the subject? What shall I do that I may obtain that transfer that God alone can given to the kingdom of heaven and there rest from every temptation of Satan, for he cannot reach me there? Satan himself will be destroyed ere long. The great battle is going on; it is walking all the time to the point.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 21
Now seek ye the Lord while He may be found. Verses 7-11. “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: ... it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it,” if you will let it. If you let it, it will do that. Why, we have an eternal truth presented to us if we will give our services to our Redeemer. And where are your children? Are you educating them for just such a life? God help us!24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 22
Verses 11, 12. That will be the representation that is made upon your minds; from the very tress that you see around you, you understand more about God. You understand more about your Creator. When persons come and urge my advice whether they shall make their home in the city, my voice says, In the country. In the country—go to work in the country. Till the soil, do anything, but do not mingle in the congested cities unless you have a work to do for those that are already there and a message that you can bear. You may do your best, and then you may have schools, you may have sanitariums. Then letters will come to me: “Sister White, now after our schools have done their work for these students, how shall we get them connected with the higher education of the world?” Who wants it? Tell me who wants it? Verse 11. What was that? Why, He gave you Christ, He gave His only begotten Son that humanity might grasp divinity in Jesus Christ. You take Christ in your soul and then you will find you have wisdom; you need not take them to the world to get something of the world to finish their education. No, indeed; the Bible, the precious Bible—study it and then teach them to carry it out in their life. “For ye shall go out with joy,” etc. Verse 12. Now this is the written word and these are figures that you are to apply and you are to understand what it means.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 23
Verse 13. There is where the beauty of it is. “Thus saith the Lord, Keep ye judgment.” Chapter 56:1. We do not have half the judgment we might have. Educate yourself in judgment. Every one of you, put to the tax every capacity that you have in view of the transfer that you are to make to the higher court, that there you shall walk by the side of Christ to get the higher education. That is the only higher education that you can obtain. He carries you with the Book in the hand, and He shows you the meaning of the words of the Book that you do not comprehend, and there, with the tree of life on either side and the path where He leads you, there are the trees for the healing of the nations, where they shall pluck and eat and find no difficulty in taking care of the food that they shall eat.24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 24
Chapter 55:13; 56:1, 2. You are to remember that God spoke about what day you were to keep. You need not be at all at any loss as to what day it is. “Six days shalt thou labor and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God,” and there He has given you His holiness that He has put upon that Sabbath if you would observe it. [Exodus 20:9, 10.]24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, par. 25
[Isaiah 56] Verses 2-5. “I will give them an everlasting name that shall not be cut off,” if they will comply with the conditions. Why, they can be the very highest missionaries that are in our world, and they can have sons and daughters that they shall take into their very houses to take care of what needs their care, that need the education from them, and here the Lord takes hold to bring us a knowledge of every line that we can follow on to know the Lord and to do His will so as not to [incomplete].Loma Linda Messages
A Message for Our Time on Medical Missionary Work
LLM 473.2
Isaiah 58, 55. These two chapters describe in a special sense our condition, our work, and its possibilities under God in Southern California.LLM 473.3
First, let us note the message to us describing our condition and the causes that have brought it. Isaiah 58:1-6. “Cry aloud and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. My people, even the faithful ones in the church are guilty, for all have sinned. The real trouble is between their way and God’s way. The difference in the two ways is of such a nature that they cannot be united. Isaiah 58:8, 9. Our only hope is to give up our way and accept God’s way. Isaiah 55:5-7.LLM 473.4
God’s way as compared with the results under our way. Isaiah 58:6-14; 55:10-13. The one is mercenary and disappointing in results, even to ourselves. The other is missionary and full of blessing to us and to others, and is crowned with everlasting success.The Review and Herald
January 20, 1910
RH January 20, 1910, par. 4
After reading portions of Isaiah 54:1 and 55, Mrs. White said:Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 1, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 1, 1891, par. 23
And then we have here in the 55th chapter the most encouraging testimony to bring to the sinner. Just listen: “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. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” [Verses 7-11.] Thus God represents that the very nature that He has created is filled with gladness and joy to see the happiness of His people.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Lt 178, 1909
24LtMs, Lt 178, 1909, par. 8
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts; neither are My ways your ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater: so shall My word be that goeth forth out of My mouth; it shall not return unto Me void; but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. For ye shall go out with joy, and shall be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree; and it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign, that shall not be cut off.” [Isaiah 55:1-13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 124, 1909
Buffalo, New York
July 18, 1909
Previously unpublished.
24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 1
Isaiah 55:1, 2-6. Will we listen to that? Will we take heed to it? Verse 7. What precious things there are in the Word, the Word of the living God.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 2
Verses 8-13; Isaiah 56:1 “Thus saith the Lord.” Now it is the Lord that is speaking to you; it is God that is speaking to you out of His Word. Verses 1-12.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 3
But now there are some things that we need to understand in the Word of God. It is God speaking to us, and we want to avoid all the extreme, and we want in every way to take warning, that we shall not follow in the path of extremes.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 4
We have here the 58th chapter: verses 1-3. Now let us bring all these things so that we shall fail in doing our part. It is our part we have now. Now here is the reason that they do not realize the special blessing of God.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 5
Verses 4-6; verses 7-12 (Breach made in the law of God) verses 13, 14. Now it will be well for us to carry out the principles that are here brought to view. We have duties to do our part, and if we will verify the Word of God as He requires of us, we shall always find that the Lord will verify His promise to us shortly, and He will not fail. Now, we want that every one of us shall understand our duty. There is a work for us to go. Every one to whom God grants the breath of life from day to day, it becomes us to understand how to meet the will and the way of the Lord.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 6
I came through the city of Buffalo a few days ago. And in every city I feel such an intensity for the souls there that have never had an opportunity to hear the truth as we present it from the Word. And when I know that soon there will come unexpectedly disasters as upon the city of Buffalo. Now I want to tell every one of you it is best for us to go to school. You say, How shall we go to school? Well, there are very many ways. You can establish schools among yourselves. You can provide for souls that need a word in season, and when you get ready to do this, just send to Sister White and tell her to send you some of her printed books, Christ’s Object Lessons, and various other books like Ministry of Healing. You want them in any school that you may establish.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 7
Now, I come to tell you today that when you get ready and want assistance of the books that I have published, I dedicated them to the Lord. They are selling them for students to come to the sanitarium for knowledge in treating the sick. It is no haphazard work. And when the sick are treated, there is to be no sorrowful face that comes into the room. There is to be no scolding nor fretting that comes to their ears, but there is to be a life-giving power from heaven that is to use the one that shall give themselves to the work. We do not say that you have to give yourselves without having any wages, but wages should not stand in the way when you see that the sick and suffering cannot help themselves.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 8
I have acted my part in the two books that I have given, and I am preparing again that I may make a donation of books, that I may make them for foreign countries, for east and west and north and south. I know that God expects this who gave me the knowledge in the simplest language. How old was I when the light began to come to me? I had been in despair, and the Spirit of God came upon me unexpectedly, and lifted me right up. My twin sister, we slept together. O, she would say, Ellen, you never will live if you do this. I would be up praying in the night, and pleading with God, for it seemed to me I should not live. I was an invalid.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 9
You see, the difficulty was here: A stone was thrown that broke my nose. Everybody said I would die, but the very ones that pronounced that I should die have heard me, in the city of Portland, stand before the people years ago. Who is that, they said? Why, it is Ellen Harmon. Ellen Harmon, we thought could not live? I am surprised. I did not think she could live, but I can understand every word she says. And it is just as simple to be understood. Well, why did the Lord Jesus choose me? He wanted to go to somebody that could not understand a great many words so that they should have the very simplest words to communicate His will to those that needed it.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 10
And when I have my workers around me strike off on the typewriter that which I write, and when I see a word they have put in there, that is not my word, some word that someone thinks will make it better, I put my pen right through it. Well, they say, What did you do that for? Because it is not my word. I give the very simplest language, that the little children can understand it. There was one came up to me when I was to speak in a certain place with about a dozen children around her and just about of her age, from ten to fifteen years old. “Mrs. White, are you going to speak this afternoon?” “I cannot speak,” said I, twice. “Well,” said she, “I have invited these girls here”—the tears were streaming down her face—“to come here and they could understand every word you said.” “Well,” said I, “tomorrow I will speak to you and to the children and to the grown people.” “Well,” said she, “we will have to wait. I guess I can get them all tomorrow.”24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 11
Now we can see that the Lord talks to us out of His Word. And if we will take the Word of the Lord, there are not very many words the children cannot understand. There are some hard pronunciations, but I want to tell you that we need a great deal more of simplicity of godliness, then the sick that are in our midst will not get tired of our words. We need to speak to the sick and suffering in our institutions in the simplest language, and keep everything like annoyance out of our voice, and just try to help and bless the sick. Also, when we are in our households, or our Sabbath school. You look at the Bible. There are some very hard words of names, but they are in that section of the Bible that you do not need to present to the first students that you shall talk with.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 12
Now what we need is to adapt ourselves to the situation. We want the light of God. We want the grace of God in our own hearts, and we want to communicate it to those that shall be in our presence. We want reformations to take place here in Buffalo. There should be souls seeking the Lord, that they may do just as is represented in Isaiah and that they should not spread sackcloth or ashes under them at all, expecting that is the way to seek the Lord. No, they can just do the essential work necessary to be done to bless the afflicted around us, and it will meet the requirements of God every day.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 13
There you can come with your afflictions to the Lord, and He has helping hands everywhere. Whenever I see the children, I feel as though I wanted to present to them the little books, a great many little books. They could read them, and they could have knowledge of what the Lord will do for them.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 14
Can’t we all be missionaries? Can’t every one that claims to be Christian take right hold understandingly and intelligently, and bring them so gently that they will know the will of God imparted to them? We have been in Loma Linda, seeking to bring the simplicity of truth before those patients that would come into the parlor to hear us speak. Then they came into another meeting to take that education, and they begin. Well, we must now order our schools so that they will understand the higher education. Of course that is what we want to do. But what was that? They must attach themselves to the world to get the world’s brand upon them, or else they could not understand the higher education. If God does not speak, if His Word is not enough higher education, what right have I to take and change in any way the Word of God?24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 15
As He gives me messages to bear, I keep to the simplicity of godliness that every one may understand it. When I write I do the same. If I see one word in the preparation of my articles and coming from the typewriter—if I see a word there—I feel it my duty to put it out, and put my own word there. But it is very seldom that any word is changed. Now I will tell you this, because I want you to understand the simplicity of religion and true godliness. I want every one of you to be in a position that you can understand that the Lord is dealing with us as His children, and when I come to Him I come to Him as His child, and I believe that as my father would give me instruction, Jesus Christ would give me instruction, just what I need.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 16
Now there has to be a great work done in Buffalo. Yes, there is. If every one will put his heart and shoulder to the wheel, we shall see a wonderful work done in simplicity, and that is what we want. We want the simplicity of true godliness, when you come into the sick room.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 17
I remember how my son Willie used to be after his father had a paralytic shock. It seemed as though he could hardly live. He would go to the cars, O so sorry, but he would try to get a smile on his face, to go in to his father, and then he came in and spoke to him cheerfully, and not have a single expression of sorrow upon his face. I remember how many times he has gone through that process.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 18
But I want to tell you, the simplicity of true godliness is to take the Word just as it reads, and when they talk of hitching us on to some parties for the higher education, it is a lower one. No, indeed. We want the simplicity of true godliness. We want that faith that works by love and purifies the soul. We want religion, pure and undefiled religion, while there is such a work and such a necessity. Let us every one of us seek to come close to the Word of simplicity of Jesus Christ.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 19
Only think of Him. The Father gave Him. The Father gave His Son to die for the sins of the world. And to think of the great sacrifice He made. O, what sacrifices are we willing to make to co-operate with God? Christ clothed His divinity with humanity, that humanity might grasp divinity in those who would see and understand His works.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 20
And this higher grade, I learned what it was. They must have the insignia of the world pronounced upon them, or they have not the higher education. Well, now we have a large class to educate. We have a large company to educate in America, but not only here, we have the means that are being carried to all parts of the world, that they may bring souls. Now will they come to a knowledge of God’s commandments, of the truth as it is in Jesus Christ. Therefore we feel an intensity, a strong intensity in this matter, that we reach whenever we can. It is not to shut out any of the poor souls. When I see that children are so anxious to get the little books, I keep thinking when I get home I will have little books made and I will take them with me everywhere I go, and I will distribute them to the children.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 21
We want the simplicity of true godliness. We want to lead our children along. We want to educate them how to know God. And just think of Christ going from place to place on foot, and multitudes following Him all along, till they are so weary and hungry, five thousand that are on His track besides women and children, without anything to eat. Well, what are they going to do? But Christ knows. So He leads them along until He sees they are hungry. “What have you got for them to eat?” “Well, we have only a few loaves, and a few fishes, and what are they among so many?” “Well, bring them along,” He says. So they brought them along, divided them, scattered them to the multitudes. Well, after that He said, “Are all fed?” “Yes.” “How many baskets full did you take up after?” “Now,” said Christ, “gather up the fragments, let nothing be lost.” [Mark 6:38; John 6:5-13; Matthew 16:9, 10.] Now there was a miracle acted out right before them.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 22
If we had more of the simplicity of godliness, let me tell you we should see thousands of souls converted where we see a hundred. The Scripture has pointed out how it is to be. The night is coming and we must be prepared for it. Now, we want in our household to make one preparation. And what is that? To teach our household to love God to keep His commandments. And when you do that you have done the very work God would have you to do.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 23
O, we want to see the children enjoying the sweet privilege that is theirs of reading the Word, the Word of life. They can do it when they are young. And no scolding, no fretting. Put it right out of the house. If your children are unruly, take them right away and talk with them, and tell them the sure result, that you cannot allow them to dishonor God, that they must have patience and kindness and goodness, and you just educate them in that way, and you will find that it takes but a few lessons for them to understand it is worship. It is not punishment for your behavior, but it is a word of praise and thanksgiving, and they hear at the altar of God that He is blessing their children. And the children listen to hear what words are spoken to the Creator in regard to them when they tell the Lord, “I thank Thee, O Lord, that thou hast kept my children from being impatient and fretful and wicked and all this.” Tell it to the Lord, and the Lord hears what you say. He sees that you are co-operating with Him.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 24
What we want, if possible, is to get into this city. We want that the work should be done in your own church, and then your church be converted, and glorified that they can take up the work. It will not be to devote your whole time on the farm, and the whole time in seeing what you can produce to get rich. No. What are the greatest riches we can any of us have? Can you tell? The greatest riches that any one of us can have is to have the benefits of a life which measures with the life of God. And if you can get this blessing to your children, if you can get it to your families, then they can be with you when you come up to the gate of the city of God—Here am I and the children that Thou hast given me. This amusement outside of the family, this decorating the person, and all these things, they do not bring us any treasure in the heavenly courts. But when we find souls, bring them to Christ.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 25
I feel so intensely over this subject it seems as though I could hardly speak of it, it is so great. But I feel like speaking of it here to you today. Let every one of us make a pledge to our God that we will take our children and establish schools, keeping in view the higher education. God will bless them if we educate them, then go on to learn more and more and more until the children stand by your side as missionaries to enter into new fields with you. There is a world to save, and what are you doing to bring it about?24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 26
My son said to me when I left home, Now Mother, I will not ask you but just to go to College View. You just stop off at College View, and then you go to Washington. We want you to speak there, and we can’t let you off there. Well, he agreed that he would not ask me, but he did not need to. As I would go to visit our schools, why I would see the necessities in the highways and the hedges.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 27
I rode six miles and back again in one day after I had spoken in Madison down there. “Now,” I asked them, “What are you doing there?” There they were at work, but what are you doing? “Why, this little farm we are apportioning it to our children. It is good for nothing, but we are going to get the poison of tobacco out of it if we can”—it had raised tobacco until it could not raise anything—“and then we portion it to our children. And they go out into the highways, and they go off into the mountains, and the hedges, and they go to teach those that have no clothing, that they can go to the schools.” “Well, I am with you,” said I. “I will help you to all the books that you need. That shall be my donation, and I want that you call in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth that you should teach them the simplicity of true godliness.” “That is what we are trying to do.” “Well, thank the Lord,” said I. “I will give you books, but I entreat of you not to neglect the simplest ones in the highways and the hedges.”24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 28
We haven’t a dollar to waste upon our own bodies, tobacco or wine or liquor, or any of these things, we haven’t a dollar to waste. There is something for us to do in this world. There are souls perishing all around us that do not know any other way than to amuse themselves by drinking wine, and playing ball, and doing other things that they have no business to do. We are to be a people intensely interested in the souls that are to be saved. There is not a soul that we can pass by indifferently. It is heaven that we are after. May the Lord God of heaven help us that we may follow in the footsteps of our Redeemer.24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 29
(Early experience related.) (Rheumatism experience in Australia related.)24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, par. 30
Now I know that my Redeemer liveth. I know that it is my privilege to take hold of divinity.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 7, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 7, 1895, par. 27
For all in responsible positions I have a message spoken by the mouth of the Lord—the 55th chapter of Isaiah. Study this chapter, and let not any human being consider that he is above his fellow workers because greater responsibilities are involved in his branch of the work. If he is like Daniel, seeking for the power that comes alone from God, that he may represent, not himself, not his imperfections in selfish and fraudulent practices, but the truth in righteousness, he will not possess a vestige of pride or self-importance; but will be weighed with the Spirit of wisdom from God. He will represent the sacredness of the work, he will magnify the truth, and will ever present before men and angels the holy perfume of the character of Christ. This is the sacred fire of God’s own kindling. Anything aside from this is strange fire, abhorrent to God, and the more offensive as one’s position in the work involves larger responsibilities.10LtMs, Ms 7, 1895, par. 29
I have a message for you: “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 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. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater; so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” [Isaiah 55:6-11.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 164, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 164, 1896, par. 7
The chapters we were reading in course were in Isaiah. He read with us, and the very portions of Scripture which specified his sin was read by himself. We thought we would give him every chance to make the application to his own case and this might awaken in him a remorse, but it did not seem to have the least influence. He did that night—after we labored with him a long while and then left him with Brother Rousseau and Brother Prescott—confess his sins of vileness, and the conditions were plainly stated, if he would break away at once, and return to New Zealand, we would furnish him money. But he said positively he would not go to New Zealand.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 132, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 132, 1898, par. 26
God chooses His workers from all classes of people, and imbues them with His own spirit. So it was in ancient times. The men and women of God’s selection were of intense earnestness, full of zeal. The last books of the Old Testament show us workers taken from the laborers in the field. Others were men of high ability and extensive learning, but the Lord gave them visions and messages. These men of the Old Testament spoke of the things transpiring in their day, and Daniel, Isaiah, and Ezekiel not only spoke of things that concerned them as present truth, but their sight reached down to the future, and to what should occur in these last days.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 167, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 167, 1899, par. 3
I now bear testimony that you are guilty of causing your husband great unhappiness which is ruining his health, spoiling his Christian experience, and making his life a burden. Will you now seek the Lord while He may be found? Will you call upon Him while He is near? “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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] My sister, if you will be as diligent and persevering to seek your own soul’s salvation as you have been to make your husband’s life unhappy, you will surely make a success. Will you now turn square about and repent and be converted? Then the Lord will forgive your sins. He says, “A new heart will I give you.” [Ezekiel 36:26.]14LtMs, Lt 167, 1899, par. 4
You have no time to lose, my sister. Read the fifty-fifth chapter of Isaiah. What is the promise to those who seek the Lord, forsaking all their disagreeable ways, and taking hold by faith of the good word of the Lord? “Ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace; the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree, and it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.” [Verses 12, 13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 66, 1910
25LtMs, Ms 66, 1910, par. 8
Read also the 55th, 56th, 57th, and 58th chapters of Isaiah. Let these chapters be diligently studied. Let pastors and people arouse from their spiritual stupidity. Let those in our cities who profess to believe the truth for this time wake up and give to others what the Lord has given them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 32a, 1910
25LtMs, Lt 32a, 1910, par. 12
Read (chapters 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57), [and] 58 of Isaiah. I am to charge you that those who are here brought to view are in need of studying these chapters. I am to say unto you, There has been a disregard for the reproofs the Lord has given to His people. There are some who will accept the words they choose to accept, but do not make the words they choose to accept, but do not make thorough work. Nevertheless I am to warn those in high positions, carrying great responsibilities. You have had great light, and had you received it and followed on to know the Lord, souls that have not heard the reasons of our faith would have heard them ere now. Although the Lord has laid the reproof upon you, you have heeded not. Shall I not judge, saith the Lord, for these neglected duties to warn My people to understand what is truth?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 92, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 92, 1899, par. 12
Mental discipline is required in our schools that the students may understand that Christ, the greatest of all Teachers, is giving them correct lessons. Knowledge is obtained by the practical working out of these lessons. All the efforts of our teachers are to be made to keep one definite object before the students—the outline of God’s expressed will. The books that have been issued by infidels should not find place in our schools. What is God’s covenant with the people He is seeking to save today, in 1899? What are the terms of salvation? What is the education which is of the most value today. We are told in the forty-second, forty-ninth, fifty-first, fifty-second, fifty-fifth, and fifty-eighth chapters of Isaiah, and in the twenty-eighth and twenty-ninth chapters of Exodus.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 15, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 15, 1900, par. 11
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not hither again, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth, and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater; so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth; it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereunto I sent it. For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace; the mountains and the hills will break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.” [Isaiah 55:1-3, 6-13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 71, 1911
25LtMs, Ms 71, 1911, par. 1
Isaiah 55:1-3. Will you consider this when you begin to feel somewhat discouraged?25LtMs, Ms 71, 1911, par. 2
Verses 4-6. How important it is that we do not neglect the most solemn, the most gracious, call that could be given to human beings. You must control your thoughts. You cannot let them run right along just as they would. If you are a servant of the living God, you will just as surely have the sanctification of the Holy Spirit upon mind and upon character, and what then? Why you have a sanctified influence. Your very words are under the control of the Lord Jesus Christ who gave His life for you. If you call upon Him, He is near.25LtMs, Ms 71, 1911, par. 3
Verses 4-7. Will we keep these things in our memories when we go out and when we come in?25LtMs, Ms 71, 1911, par. 4
Verses 8-13. Blessed, blessed promise. I might read here one or two chapters. When you want to get comfort and encouragement, just go to the 55th, 56th, 57th, and 58th chapters of Isaiah, and you will find that there is a whole field of encouragement for you. You will find that there is an open door where you can enter, where you can meet with God, where you can seek Him earnestly, and He will be found of you. But what we need is that meekness that Christ represented in His life and in His character. He has brought it to our minds here in His Word, and He wants each soul to humble his heart before God and to stand in right relation to Him.Loma Linda Messages
E. G. White to Leading Ministers in California, Dec. 6, 1909 (B. 178, 1909)
LLM 462.5
“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy and eat; yea, come buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto Me; hear, and your soul shall live and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Behold, I have given Him for a witness to the (814) people, a leader and a commander to the people. Behold thou shalt call a nation that you knowest not; and nations that know not thee shall run after thee, because of the Lord thy God, and for the holy One of Israel; for He hath glorified thee.” (Isaiah 55:1-5)(Isaiah 55:6-13)
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 81, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 81, 1906, par. 10
“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money, come ye, buy and eat; yea come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which satisfieth not? Hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto Me; hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Behold, I have given Him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people. Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knewest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee, because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for He hath glorified thee.” [Isaiah 55:1-5.]21LtMs, Ms 81, 1906, par. 11
What is our message? “Seek ye the Lord, while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near: 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. For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater; so shall My word be that goeth forth out of My mouth: it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” [Verses 6-11.]21LtMs, Ms 81, 1906, par. 12
“For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree; and it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign, that shall not be cut off.” [Verses 12, 13.]21LtMs, Ms 81, 1906, par. 13
What a representation is this! God makes a most earnest, gracious offer of salvation to all who will empty their hearts of selfishness and of every species of idolatry. None need to despair of His mercy. Who will receive the Word, the Bread of life? This means receiving and believing in Christ, and uniting with Him in His works of mercy, teaching the way of life to sinners and backsliders—to all who have the tares of error mingled with their faith. “Buy,” He says, “without money and without price.” [Verse 1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 93, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, par. 2
“Ho every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy and eat; yea, come buy wine and milk, without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which satisfieth not? Hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto Me; hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Behold, I have given him for a witness unto the people, a leader and commander to the people. Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knewest not; and nations that knew not thee shall run after thee, because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for He hath glorified thee.” [Isaiah 55:1-5.]24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, par. 4
“Seek ye the Lord, while He may be found; call ye upon Him while He is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” [Verses 6, 7.]24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, par. 5
The words are spoken to those who have once known the Lord and have claimed His name, but who have backslidden from Him. Let these, the prophet says, “return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. For My thoughts are not your thoughts; neither are your ways My ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, that it may bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater; so shall My word be that goeth forth out of My mouth; it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” [Verses 7-11.]24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, par. 17
Our ministers are not to be encouraged to hover about the churches to repeat to the believers week after week the same truths. We have a truth that is saving and precious. The Word of God must be planted in many hearts; the bread of life must be dealt out to many hungering souls. If we will study carefully the 58th chapter of Isaiah with these words I have read to you from the 55th and 54th chapters, you will see that there is a precious and an extended work to be done by the people of God. It is a blessed work to lift up Christ before the world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 81, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, par. 1
“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy and eat; yea, come buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto Me; hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Behold, I have given Him for a witness unto the people, a leader and commander to the people. Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and a nation that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for He hath glorified thee.” [Isaiah 55:1-5.]24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, par. 4
“As the rain cometh down and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: so shall My word be that goeth forth out of My mouth: it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” [Verses 6-11.] The prophet here represents the work of the Holy Spirit upon the human heart. Through this power and the agency of His Word, God instructs all who follow on to know the Lord.24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, par. 5
The prophet continues: “Ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.” [Verses 12, 13.]24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, par. 6
The faithful worker will realize the fulfilment of these words in his own experience as he plants and sows in faith. He is to remember as he labors for perishing souls that angels of God are also working for results, and through their agency the human agent accomplishes that which he could not do alone. “Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree; instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree; and these shall be to the Lord for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.” [Verse 13.]Isaiah 55:2
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
The Essential Knowledge
CT 12.2
The tree of knowledge, so-called, has become an instrument of death. Satan has artfully woven his dogmas, his false theories, into the instruction given. From the tree of knowledge he speaks the most pleasing flattery in regard to the higher education. Thousands partake of the fruit of this tree, but it means death to them. Christ says, “Ye spend money for that which is not bread.” Isaiah 55:2. You are using your heaven-entrusted talents to secure an education which God pronounces foolishness.My Life Today
A Nutritious Diet, May 8
ML 132.1
Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Isaiah 55:2.To Be Like Jesus
Food to Be Wholesome and Palatable, October 17
BLJ 306.1
Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen diligently to Me, and eat what is good, and let your soul delight itself in abundance. Isaiah 55:2, NKJV.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 36, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 36, 1892, par. 7
I have felt a very strong desire to see you both; it has seemed to me that I must see you, and must talk to you, especially to Edson. I hope and pray that you will not enter into the enterprise which you mentioned in W. C. White’s letter. For I know that there is danger for your soul. We have hoped and longed and prayed that you would respond to the light the Lord has given you in regard to your duty and the work He has given you to do. He has given you ability, made you apt to teach. Satan has come in to separate you from God, and to tempt you with fascinating prospects, and you have been allured from your diligence to God. “Wherefore do you spend money for that which is not bread? And your labor for that which satisfieth not?” [Isaiah 55:2.] Satan has devices prepared one after another to catch your soul. “Resist the devil and he will flee from you; draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:7, 8.] The crown of life is for those who run the Christian race with patience. When you surrender yourself without any reservation, your Redeemer will accept the offering.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 10a, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 10a, 1898, par. 15
Those who drink deep a the fountain of selfish pleasure are often deceived. They mistake hilarity for strength, and when the excitement ceases, their inspiration ends, and, disappointed, deceived, deluded, they are left deep in despondency and despair. O, what madness, what folly it is to trifle with one’s soul! “Wherefore,” says the prophet, “do ye spend money for that which is not meat, and your strength for that which satisfieth not. Hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.” [Isaiah 55:2.]Isaiah 55:2-3
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 14, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 14, 1889, par. 2
This precious gift of heaven is freely offered to all who will accept it. Our brightest hopes, our loftiest aspirations, can ask nothing more complete, more noble, more exalted. The tokens of infinite love, the pleadings of divine mercy, are ever wooing us to turn to God. The prophet says, “Wherefore do ye spend your money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live.” [Isaiah 55:2, 3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 151, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 151, 1899, par. 7
I want every member of the Wessels family saved unto eternal life. I do not want the mournful words applied to them, “I have spread out my hands all the day unto a rebellious people, which walked in a way that was not good, after their own thoughts, a people that provoketh me to anger continually to my face.” [Isaiah 65:2, 3.] The God of heaven pleads with you, saying, “Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” [Isaiah 55:2, 3.]Isaiah 55:3
God’s Amazing Grace
Everlasting, May 2
AG 130.1
Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Isaiah 55:3.From Splendor to Shadow
The Important Work: Deliverance From Sin
Incline your ear, and come unto Me:
Hear, and your soul shall live;
And I will make an everlasting covenant with you,
Even the sure mercies of David.
Isaiah 55:3
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 27, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 27, 1890, par. 16
We are to keep increasing in wisdom. The more experience we gain in doing the will of the Lord, the better will we understand what the cross of Calvary means to us. Christ says, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] We shall find that as we lift the cross, it lifts us. Fallen human beings can be converted and transformed only by following where Christ leads the way. Justice says, “Let him alone; he is joined to his idols.” [Hosea 4:17.] Christ says, “Let him come to Me, and live. I will pardon his transgressions. Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me, and he shall make peace with Me.” [Isaiah 55:3; 27:5.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 26, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 26, 1895, par. 20
God has given Jesus as our Sin-bearer, in order that we may be presented perfect in the merits of Christ before the throne of God. Those who receive Jesus as the Way, the Truth and the Life, are beloved of God even as His only begotten Son is beloved. Jesus died to rescue souls from the bondage of sin, and every one who returns to His loyalty is precious in the sight of God. Our glorious Redeemer who died to secure our eternal happiness is a risen Saviour, who has ascended to the Father. He led captivity, captive, and gave gifts unto men. The administration of His grace is in His hands, and He ever liveth to dispense blessings in abundant measures of grace. He will give power to His children according as their circumstances demand. He says, “Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” [Isaiah 55:3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 95, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 95, 1899, par. 13
As a people we are to stand under the banner of Jesus Christ. We are to consecrate ourselves to God as a distinct, separate, and peculiar people. He speaks to us, saying, “Incline your ear, and come unto me, hear, and your soul shall live: and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” “In righteousness shalt thou be established, thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear; and from terror; for it shall not come near thee. Behold, they shall surely gather together, but not by me; whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake. ... No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper, and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord.” [Isaiah 55:3; 54:14, 15, 17.]Isaiah 55:3-5
The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 22—Thessalonica
AA 223.2
Isaiah prophesied: “There shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots.” “Incline your ear, and come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Behold, I have given Him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people. Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for He hath glorified thee.” Isaiah 11:1; 55:3-5.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 124, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 124, 1897, par. 20
“Incline your ear, and come unto me; hear, and your soul shall live, and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Behold, I have given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people. Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee, because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee.” [Isaiah 55:3-5.]Jesus, Name Above All Names
Branch, April 1
JNN 101.3
Isaiah prophesied: “There shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots.” “Incline your ear, and come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Behold, I have given Him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people. Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for He hath glorified thee” (Isaiah 11:1; 55:3-5).Isaiah 55:3-7
Prophets and Kings
Chapter 26—“Behold Your God!”
PK 319.2
The call to repentance was sounded with unmistakable clearness, and all were invited to return. “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found,” the prophet pleaded; “call ye upon Him while He is near: 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.” Isaiah 55:6, 7.PK 319.3
Have you, reader, chosen your own way? Have you wandered far from God? Have you sought to feast upon the fruits of transgression, only to find them turn to ashes upon your lips? And now, your life plans thwarted and your hopes dead, do you sit alone and desolate? That voice which has long been speaking to your heart, but to which you would not listen, comes to you distinct and clear, “Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest: because it is polluted, it shall destroy you, even with a sore destruction.” Micah 2:10. Return to your Father’s house. He invites you, saying, “Return unto Me; for I have redeemed thee.” “Come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” Isaiah 44:22; 55:3.The Review and Herald
March 25, 1915
RH March 25, 1915, par. 9
The call to repentance was sounded with unmistakable clearness, and all were invited to return. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found,” the prophet pleaded; “call ye upon him while he is near: 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.” Isaiah 55:6, 7.RH March 25, 1915, par. 10
Have you, reader, chosen your own way? Have you wandered far from God? Have you sought to feast upon the fruits of transgression, only to find them turn to ashes upon your lips? And now, your life plans thwarted, and your hopes dead, do you sit alone and desolate? That voice which has long been speaking to your heart, but to which you would not listen, comes to you distinct and clear, “Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest: because it is polluted, it shall destroy you, even with a sore destruction.” Micah 2:10. Return to your Father’s house. He invites you, saying, “Return unto me; for I have redeemed thee.” Isaiah 44:22. “Come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” Isaiah 55:3.From Splendor to Shadow
The Lord Will Receive You
SS 168.1
The call to repentance was clear, and all were invited to return. “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found,” the prophet pleaded; “call ye upon Him while He is near: 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.” Isaiah 55:6, 7.SS 168.2
Have you wandered far from God? Have you sought to feast on the fruits of transgression, only to find them turn to ashes upon your lips? And now, your plans thwarted and your hopes dead, do you sit alone and desolate? That voice comes to you distinct and clear, “Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest: because it is polluted, it shall destroy you.” Micah 2:10. Your Father invites you, saying, “Return unto Me; for I have redeemed thee.” “Come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live.” Isaiah 44:22; 55:3.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 14, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 14, 1898, par. 4
The gospel deals with individuals. Man is of more value in God’s sight than gold or silver. He has more to lose or win than even angels can estimate. The Lord is calling to each individual soul, “Incline your ear, and come unto me, hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. ... Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near. 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.” [Isaiah 55:3, 6, 7.]Isaiah 55:6
In Heavenly Places
“While He May Be Found,” December 4
HP 345.1
Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near. Isaiah 55:6.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 93, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 93, 1896, par. 9
In hours when clouds encompass the soul, Christ is not far from every one of us. To whom shall we go if not to the Sin-bearer, the great Healer of human woe? “Thou hast the words of eternal life.” [John 6:68.] There is joy for all who put their trust in him, and exercise the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Jesus says, “My joy shall be in you, and your joy shall be full.” [John 15:11.] “Without faith it is impossible to please him.” [Hebrews 11:6.] A paralysis has stolen upon the spiritual nerve and muscle of the children of God. Arouse now, just now, without delay. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 82, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, par. 9
God call upon those who profess his name to seek for true conversion. Many are at ease, and they know not what it is to experience true religion. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.] Let every voice say, “Come,” let every influence and ability be exercised to win souls to the Lord. You cannot be too enthusiastic, you cannot be too much in earnest in seeking to save that which is lost. Not one is excused from the work, though he may be able to do but little; for through the doing of what he has ability to do, he may gain courage and faith and grace to do a larger work.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 43, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 43, 1900, par. 17
My mind is exercised in regard to our people in California. I cannot keep out of mind the words, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found; call ye upon him while he is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 182, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 182, 1903, par. 29
I beg of you for your soul’s sake, “Seek the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.] Ask Him to take away your sins.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 317a, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 317a, 1904, par. 11
I appeal to you as one in whom I am interested to heed this warning. I ask you, for the sake of Him who gave His life for you, to turn unto the Lord with full purpose of heart. “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found; call ye upon Him while He is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.] O that you could realize that if you will gather up the divine rays of light shining upon you from the divine Word, if you would allow the oil of grace to be emptied into your soul, you would be saved, even in this the eleventh hour; and in your daily life, by being good and doing good, you would illustrate the power of practical godliness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 338, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 338, 1905, par. 4
I have no argument with you. I have only to say, “Seek the Lord while He may be found; call ye upon Him while He is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.] For years you have been giving others a dangerous education. You have worked in co-partnership with the enemy, yet the Lord of life has not ceased to warn you. He is still inviting you to take His yoke upon you and learn of Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 350, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 350, 1906, par. 17
“Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.] Let your heart break in humility before God. I beseech of you to break the awful spell that has been upon you. It is not safe for you longer to delay.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 168, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 168, 1907, par. 13
“Seek ye the Lord while He may be found; call ye upon Him while He is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.] Pray that the Holy Spirit may rebuke the deceiver and set the captives free. I call upon Dr. Paulson and Brother Sadler no longer to halt between two opinions. My brethren, the truth of the Word of God has been entrusted to our keeping. Will you allow yourselves to be influenced by a man who gives so little evidence that this truth is controlling his mind and heart, a man who has departed from the faith that he once believed to give heed to seducing spirits? Because of his high fame, evil angels have hoped to make of him a most successful worker in the ranks of the enemy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 71, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 71, 1907, par. 23
Wake up, brethren, wake up, for Christ’s sake. “Seek the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.] He will hear your prayers; He will answer your petitions. But do not grieve the heart of my Saviour any longer by standing where you are at this time, when His judgments are being poured right upon the world for their wickedness. We are living in the days of which it is said that “as it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man.” [Luke 17:26.]In Heavenly Places
A Work of Preparation, December 6
HP 347.4
Because of the increasing power of Satan’s temptations, the times in which we live are full of peril for the children of God, and we need to learn constantly of the Great Teacher, that we may take every step in surety and righteousness. Wonderful scenes are opening before us, and at this time a living testimony is to be borne in the lives of God’s professing people, so that the world may see that in this age when evil reigns on every side, there is yet a people who are laying aside their will and are seeking to do God’s will—a people in whose hearts and lives the law of God is written. There are strong temptations before us, sharp tests. The commandment-keeping people of God are to prepare for this time of trial by obtaining a deeper experience in the things of God and a practical knowledge of the righteousness of Christ.... Not to unbelievers only, but to church members the words are spoken, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near” (Isaiah 55:6)....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 51, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 51, 1908, par. 10
Those who take hold of the work at this time are not to repeat the mistakes that have been made in the past, when men have sought to control and rule their fellow workers. God forbids that this spirit shall come into His work. Another message than this is to be borne. Those who have felt a burden to place yokes on the necks of their brethren, who desired to labor, are called upon to repent and be converted. “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.] The message of the third angel is to go forth with a loud voice. Wake up the watchmen; leave them not to settle back in their deathlike slumber.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 81, 1912
25LtMs, Ms 81, 1912, par. 20
Tell the children what God has done through Christ, that they might have the gift of eternal life. Now, if you will take hold of this matter intelligently, you will indeed cry aloud, and spare not. I want to speak to the gray-headed, and to every soul in this congregation, “Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.] And if we will press on and through Christ get rid of all our sins, what have we done then? Why, heaven is open. The gates of the city of God are open, and the nations that have kept the truth are welcome, and once within the gates, we go no more out forever. There we shall have freedom from all sins.Lift Him Up
Church to Be Added to Church, October 7
LHU 294.1
Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near. Isaiah 55:6.Our Father Cares
A Work of Preparation, June 28
OFC 191.4
Because of the increasing power of Satan’s temptations, the times in which we live are full of peril for the children of God, and we need to learn constantly of the Great Teacher, that we may take every step in surety and righteousness. Wonderful scenes are opening before us, and at this time a living testimony is to be borne in the lives of God’s professing people, so that the world may see that in this age when evil reigns on every side, there is yet a people who are laying aside their will and are seeking to do God’s will—a people in whose hearts and lives the law of God is written. There are strong temptations before us, sharp tests. The commandment-keeping people of God are to prepare for this time of trial by obtaining a deeper experience in the things of God and a practical knowledge of the righteousness of Christ.... Not to unbelievers only, but to church members the words are spoken, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near” (Isaiah 55:6)....Sons and Daughters of God
Seek the Lord While He May Be Found, December 2
SD 343.1
Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near. Isaiah 55:6.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 29, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 29, 1889, par. 21
When you assemble together, do not dishonor God by criticizing the worshippers and picking flaws in the characters of your brethren. Your work is between God and your own individual soul. What are you thinking of, my brethren? There is work to do in the saving of souls around you, and precious time is passing. The hours of probation will soon close. Is your work for the Master of that character that you will hear the “Well done, good and faithful servant”? [Matthew 25:21.] Remember that every soul making efforts in the divine life finds every inch of ground disputed by an antagonistic force and [that] he must gird himself for the conflict by earnest prayer and fight the good fight of faith. He is called to “wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” [Ephesians 6:12.] There is no strength to be invested in warring against each other. If individually we make progress in spirituality, the loins must be girt about with truth, we must have on the breastplate of righteousness, we must take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit. Brethren, seek God. “Seek Him while He is to be found, call upon Him while He is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 59, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 59, 1892, par. 19
And could you expect, my son, that at this distance I should telegraph to you as you desired? I dare not do it. If I lose all my property through mismanagement of others, I had better do it than through the mismanagement of my own son. I cannot place myself in your hands in any way while you will not place yourself in the hands of God, to seek His counsel and to be humbly guided by His wisdom. “Seek the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.] Have pity on yourself, have pity on me, and show respect to Jesus Christ who has bought you with His own blood. May the Lord work for you! I can do nothing more. However good may be your intentions and purposes, Christ says, “Without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 52, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 52, 1892, par. 16
I hope and pray that you will make haste slowly, because your soul’s salvation depends upon this. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.” Isaiah 55:6. This you can do earnestly, without a moment’s delay. You can now, just now, make the first step. So long have you taken counsel of yourself, so long have you followed your own planning and devising, it will be difficult for you to submit all to God and commit your ways unto Him that He may direct your path. I feel in earnest in this matter, for I know that for you to put off any longer the work the Lord has left for you to do, places you in the enemy’s power and where he may lead you into strange paths, to make an objectionable record in the books of heaven.Isaiah 55:6-7
In Heavenly Places
Hope for Lost Sinners, November 18
HP 329.4
His voice is heard in tones of yearning tenderness, entreaty, and love! “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 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” (Isaiah 55:6, 7)....Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce
Chapter 28—An Influential Minister
TSB 198.1
Total Life Control Possible—And again I say, “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near: 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” (Isaiah 55:6, 7). Go to work and confess your sins before God; seek God, for you know but very little of this kind of work. Put your thoughts to work upon pure, holy subjects; tax your powers; send your supplications to heaven in earnest contrition of soul; let your conversation, your thoughts, your deportment, be in harmony with the holy faith you claim to be defending.Ye Shall Receive Power
From Scarlet to White, October 14
YRP 296.2
When you remember that Christ has paid the price of His own blood for your redemption and for the redemption of others, you will be moved to catch the bright rays of His righteousness, that you may shed them upon the pathway of those around you. You are not to look to the future, thinking that at some distant day you are to be made holy; it is now that you are to be sanctified through the truth. The prophet exhorts: “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 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” (Isaiah 55:6, 7). And Jesus said, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me ... unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8).Selections from the Testimonies for the Church For the Study of Those Attending the General Conference in Oakland, Ca., March 27, 1903
Chapter 4—The Review and Herald Fire
PH151 14.4
To our people, ministers and lay-members, I am instructed to say, “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return unto the Lord,”—for many ministers and people are walking in strange paths,—“and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” Isaiah 55:6, 7.Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 4, 1885
2SAT 25.6
And now, my brethren, “Seek the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near: 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” [Isaiah 55:6, 7].Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Dwell on Practical Religion
2TT 212.4
“Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near: 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.” Isaiah 55:6, 7. The lives of many show that they have no living connection with God. They are drifting into the channel of the world. They have, in reality, no part or lot with Christ. They love amusement and are filled with selfish ideas, plans, hopes, and ambitions. They serve the enemy under the pretense of serving God. They are in bondage to a taskmaster, and this bondage they choose, making themselves willing slaves of Satan.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 15, 1884
4LtMs, Ms 15, 1884, par. 12
We tried to impress upon them not to confuse faith with feeling. Feeling is no criterion for us. The inquiry should arise from every heart, What has the Lord spoken? I rely upon His Word. “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near: 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.” Isaiah 55:6, 7.4LtMs, Ms 15, 1884, par. 21
The meetings increased in interest from the commencement to the close. Quite a number who had been backslidden from God began to seek the Lord earnestly, and as they returned unto the Lord, their testimony evidenced the surety of the promise, “Let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 4, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 4, 1885, par. 18
And now, my brethren, “Seek the Lord while He may be found; call ye upon Him while He is near; 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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 5, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 5, 1886, par. 15
And again I say, “Seek the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is nigh. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts, let him return unto the Lord and He will have mercy upon him, and to our God for He will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] Go to work and confess your sins before God, seek God for you know but very little of this kind of work. Put your thoughts to work upon pure, holy subjects; tax your powers; send your supplications to heaven in earnest contrition of soul; let your conversation, your thoughts, your deportment be in harmony with the holy faith you claim to be defending.Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]
4—Conference Administrators
9MR 159.1
Presidents of conferences, I appeal to you in the name of the Lord Jesus: “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near: 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” (Isaiah 55:6, 7).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 15, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 15, 1888, par. 6
There has been a great departure from God in this matter. There has been a loss of zeal for the truth, and the light contained in the “Testimonies” has been disregarded. May the Lord help you, my brethren, to come into a position where the animal powers will not predominate over the moral and the spiritual. May your eyes not be blinded by self-indulgence, so that you cannot discern between the sacred and the common. God forbid that the precious truth should be held in unrighteousness and that you should dishonor God and the truth by a corrupt and unconsecrated life. Study your true position before God. At this time when the prayers of faith should be going up to God, you are not ready to lift up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. Have you not a work to do to seek the Lord with humiliation of soul, with fasting and prayer? Is it not time, high time, for you to awake out of sleep and shake off this carnal security? “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.] This privilege will not always be granted us; therefore, we should make diligent use of our present opportunities. “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.” [Verse 7.] Then make no delay. The gracious promise is yours today. Set your heart and your house in order. God sees the defects in your character, and He desires that you should see them and feel your great need of help which He alone can give you.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 17, 1887
5LtMs, Ms 17, 1887, par. 12
Brethren and sisters, are you not ashamed that you have done so little for Christ when you consider that He has done so much for you? Shall we not from this time do more? And in order to do this, you must drink of the fountain of life. You must set aside your own inclinations, your ease, and all your pleasures, and you must get your eye fixed on your pattern Jesus. And after Christ has done so much for us, what will you do for Him? Now we will inquire if there are not those here that have done very little for Christ. Are there not those that have complained? Will you not this day put these things away? Come, flee over on the Lord’s side, repent of your lukewarmness, and make your calling and election sure! If your heart were held open before God, I ask, how would it read? I beg of you today, humble your hearts before God. We want, at this the first camp meeting that has been held in Europe, that God shall reveal His power among us. Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. “Let the wicked forsake his ways, 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.” Isaiah 55:6, 7. We want to have the precious light of heaven shine into our hearts, that we can let it shine to others, and we invite those who have never given their hearts to God to come forward here on these front seats, and we will try to seek the Lord with all our hearts.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 53, 1887
5LtMs, Lt 53, 1887, par. 23
I speak to you from this far-off land, “Seek ye the Lord while He is to be found, call ye upon Him while He is nigh. Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts, let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 20, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 20, 1889, par. 2
Said Jesus, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Mark 2:17.] And again, “I say unto you that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance.” [Luke 15:7.] Will you not believe these precious words? Will you not receive them into your heart? “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near. 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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] Is not this promise broad and deep and full? Can you ask more? Will you not allow the Lord right here to erect a standard for you against the enemy? Satan is ready to steal away the blessed assurances of God. He desires to take every glimmer of hope and every ray of light from the soul; but you must not permit him to do this. Exercise faith, fight the good fight of faith, wrestle with these doubts. Become acquainted with the promises.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 58, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 58, 1889, par. 5
Elder Daniels is not the fountain; he is not the wellspring of life. Let not any man then look to any other human source, but seek God for ourselves while He is to be found. “Call ye upon Him while He is near: 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.” Isaiah 55:6, 7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 23a, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 23a, 1890, par. 12
The Lord has said, “Come, let us reason together; ... though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” [Isaiah 1:18.] “Seek the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is nigh. Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned we make Him a liar and His word is not in us.” [1 John 1:9, 10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 27, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 27, 1890, par. 12
Oh, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] Are you who are dependent upon God for every breath, for all the capabilities you possess, for every blessing you enjoy, indifferent as to whether you do His sayings or not? Can you afford to be satisfied with gaining the things of this life at the loss of the eternal riches? God has blessed you with intellect; whatever sound judgment you have, it is His gift. Do you realize that you are bought with a price? that the Lord has claims upon you? Will you give Him back that which is His own?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 18d, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 18d, 1890, par. 5
I hoped not to be compelled to give you a personal testimony, and shall not now, further than the Spirit of the Lord urges me; but in His name who has sent me and given me words to speak to the people as they need it, I speak to you. Humble yourself under the hand of God, “Seek the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts, let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] I say unto you in the name of the Lord, You will never come to a knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus, until you put away the spirit which has controlled you at this meeting and has led you to take the place of teacher rather than that of a learner.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 33, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 33, 1890, par. 18
I call upon you to die to self. Get together. “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call ye upon him while he is near. 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 unto our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] Jesus is waiting to be gracious. When you have received the baptism of the Holy Spirit, then you will understand more of the joys of salvation than you have known all your life hitherto. “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses to me ... unto the uttermost parts of the earth.” [Acts 1:8.] Make your requests known unto God. Moses made his urgent request known unto God. He plead, “Show me thy glory,” and the Lord answered his prayer. [Exodus 33:18-23.] He took that atom of humanity and hid him under His own hand in a cleft of the rock, that His glory might pass before him, and not consume him. May the Lord set home this appeal to your souls is my prayer.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 56, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 56, 1892, par. 9
If you have done wrong in any way, save your soul by confessing your wrong and God will forgive you. Only come to God in contrition, and He will pardon. But “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] However others may think of you and treat you, we will stand by you, we will sustain you in God and not sustain you while you are separating yourself from God. We do not hold out any inducement, only the Lord Jesus. Take Him as your Saviour. I cannot put confidence in you aside from this.Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]
MR No. 1261—High Standard of Purity and Holiness to Characterize Gospel Ministers
17MR 144.2
And again I say, “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near: 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” [Isaiah 55:6, 7]. Go to work and confess your sins before God. Seek God, for you know but very little of this kind of work. Put your thoughts to work upon pure, holy subjects. Tax your powers. Send your supplications to heaven in earnest contrition of soul. Let your conversation, your thoughts, your deportment, be in harmony with the holy faith you claim to be defending. And when all like yourself shall repent and find the pardoning love of God, we shall see that God will work in a wonderful manner with His people. Sinners will be converted; backsliders will be reclaimed.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 124, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 124, 1893, par. 19
Oh, my son, you needed self-examination all these years. You need to turn your thoughts inward, and in diligent searching examine your own individual self critically to see if every action will bear the test of the grand and solemn review. Stand in awe before God and sin not, for remember the wages of sin is death. My soul is drawn out in pity and warning to you. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, for he will have mercy upon him; and to our God for he will abundantly pardon.” Isaiah 55:6, 7. Oh, wound not Jesus, the One who died for the salvation of your soul! “Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.” Romans 12:9.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 24a, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 24a, 1896, par. 20
Presidents of conferences, I appeal to you in the name of the Lord Jesus: “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] You are to be self-denying missionaries, men of thought, men who will pray for divine enlightenment, and who will be faithful and true to responsibilities. Sit at the feet of Jesus, and learn His will. There must be zealous activity on your part. Teach not your ideas, your plans, your notions, your maxims, but teach the Word of the Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 11, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, par. 18
The presence and comfort of the Holy Spirit has been with me. The Lord has manifested himself to me. I have not time to mourn over the dead. Time is short, and I must entreat the living to seek the Lord while He may be found. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] I desire to do the work God has given my to do; “for yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.” [Hebrews 10:37.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 108, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 108, 1896, par. 17
You loved your Bible, and you loved to study it; it was precious to you, better than a collection of syllables and words. The Spirit of God is drawing you, and He will pardon your transgressing His commandments, which is a terrible dishonor to God and terrible against yourself. Turn ye, turn ye for why will ye die? “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 125, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 125, 1896, par. 6
“But God, who is rich in mercy, for the great love wherewith he hath loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved); and hath raised us up together, and hath made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:4-6.] What a wonderful work the Lord is willing to do for you if you will give up your own will to the will of Him who has paid the price of redemption. All you have to do is to seek the Lord while He may be found, to call upon Him while He is near. “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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 135, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 135, 1896, par. 1
The Lord is calling for Charlie Colcord. He wants you to leave the black banner of Satan and to take your position under the bloodstained banner of Prince Immanuel. I am instructed to say to you, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 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.” Isaiah 55:6, 7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 7, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 7, 1896, par. 35
Wake up, brethren, wake up, before it is too late for your characters to be changed. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near; 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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 178, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 178, 1896, par. 6
Show yourself a man. “Seek the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is nigh. 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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] The Lord is good and merciful. He will receive you if you will come to Him and let His Holy Spirit into your heart with His transforming grace. Then how great a burden would you lift from the hearts and minds and souls of your parents. Your life as it has been is casting reflections upon your parents’ training and educating. Your course is a reproach upon them. But you may change all this. Your course of conduct may be representative of truth. You can be an argument in favor of truth and righteousness by the transformation of your own soul through the reception of the precious grace of Christ who gave His life for you to make that life a blessing in this world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 17, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 17, 1897, par. 20
There is hope for the erring. God would have us trust in Him, and walk in faith and righteousness before Him. “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” [Psalm 34:18.] “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found; call ye upon him while he is near. 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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]
MR No. 1269—Every Person Has God-Given Talents Which Should Bear Fruit; Church Leaders Not to Exercise Absolute Control Over Others
17MR 206.2
Wake up, brethren, wake up, before it is too late for your characters to be changed. “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near: 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” [Isaiah 55:6, 7].—Letter 7, 1896.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 26, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 26, 1897, par. 22
Have a holy determination that you will seek the Lord while He may be found, that you will call upon Him while He is nigh. “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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 36, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 36, 1897, par. 9
There is only one hope for you. You must come to Christ as a poor sinner ready to perish, humble your soul before God, exercise that repentance that needeth not to be repented of, and God will receive you. You are constantly under remorse when you are communicating from the Word light and truth to others. If that truth sanctified your own life, you would be a blessing and not a curse. Your only hope is to seek the Lord while He may be found, to call upon Him while He is near. “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts, and let him return unto me, and I will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 146, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 146, 1897, par. 21
My message to the churches is, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is nigh, 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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 94, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 94, 1898, par. 8
There are souls who need now to heed the words of the prophet, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found; call ye upon him while he is near. 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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 130, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 130, 1898, par. 20
As these things were spoken, I saw that some turned sadly away, and mingled with the scoffers. Others with tears, all broken in heart, were making confessions to those whom they had bruised and wounded. They did not think of maintaining their own dignity, but asked at every step, What must I do to be saved? The answer was, “Repent, and be converted, that your sins may go beforehand to judgment, and be blotted out.” [See Acts 3:19; 1 Timothy 5:24.] Words were spoken to greatly rebuke all spiritual pride, for this God will not tolerate. It is inconsistent with His Word and with our profession of faith. “Seek ye the Lord,” all ye who are ministers of His. Seek Him “while he may be found; call ye upon him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts, and let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him, and to our God; for He will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 3, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 3, 1898, par. 34
Thus it is in our day. Forms and outward ceremonies pass for true religion. But through His servant, Christ presents before us true Christianity. “Seek ye the Lord, while he may be found; call ye upon him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] “Thus saith the high and lofty One, that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy: I dwell in the high and holy place: with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” [Isaiah 57:15.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 69, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 69, 1899, par. 16
“Seek the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near. 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.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Isaiah 55:1
A Call To Stand Apart
Chapter 8—How to Have Faith
CSA 29.3
It is peace that you need—Heaven’s forgiveness and peace and love in the soul. Money cannot buy it, intellect cannot procure it, wisdom cannot attain to it; you can never hope, by your own efforts, to secure it. But God offers it to you as a gift, “without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1. It is yours if you will but reach out your hand and grasp it. The Lord says, “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” Isaiah 1:18. “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you.” Ezekiel 36:26.That I May Know Him
The Living Water, January 18
TMK 24.5
References: Deuteronomy 32:15; Psalm 19:14; 62:7; 61:2; 71:3 (margin); 73:26 (margin); 94:22; 23:2; 36:8, 9; Proverbs 18:4; Jeremiah 2:13; Zechariah 13:1; Isaiah 26:4 (margin); 32:2; 41:17; 44:3; 35:6; 55:1; Revelation 22:1, 17.The Faith I Live By
Peace Through the Cross, April 7
FLB 103.4
It is peace that you need—Heaven’s forgiveness and peace and love in the soul. Money cannot buy it, intellect cannot procure it, wisdom cannot attain to it; you can never hope, by your own efforts, to secure it. But God offers it to you as a gift, “without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1....The Faith I Live By
Filled With His Righteousness, April 13
FLB 109.3
Not by painful struggles or wearisome toil, not by gift or sacrifice, is righteousness obtained; but it is freely given to every soul who hungers and thirsts to receive it. “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; ... without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1. “Their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord,” and, “This is his name whereby he shall be called, The Lord our righteousness.” Isaiah 54:17; Jeremiah 23:6.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.”—Matthew 5:6.
MB 18.2
Not by painful struggles or wearisome toil, not by gift or sacrifice, is righteousness obtained; but it is freely given to every soul who hungers and thirsts to receive it. “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat, ... without money and without price.” “Their righteousness is of Me, saith the Lord,” and, “This is His name whereby He shall be called, The Lord Our Righteousness.” Isaiah 55:1; 54:17; Jeremiah 23:6.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
A Time of Trial Before Us
3TT 391.3
Soon there is to be trouble all over the world. It becomes everyone to seek to know God. We have no time to delay. With earnestness and fervor the message must be given: “Ho, everyone that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1. “Thus saith the Lord, Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for My salvation is near to come, and My righteousness to be revealed. Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil.” Isaiah 56:1, 2.Homeward Bound
Righteousness Is ...! March 16
HB 93.3
Not by painful struggles or wearisome toil, not by gift or sacrifice, is righteousness obtained; but it is freely given to every soul who hungers and thirsts to receive it. “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat, . . . without money and without price.” “Their righteousness is of Me, saith the Lord,” and, “This is His name whereby He shall be called, The Lord Our Righteousness.” (Isaiah 55:1; 54:17; Jeremiah 23:6.)With God at Dawn
Come, Buy, Eat Without Price, April 2
WGD 94.1
Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Isaiah 55:1.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 43a, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 43a, 1890, par. 12
The position taken at Battle Creek has been the pulse-beating of many churches. The power of God, the rich graces He longs to bestow, is not desired unless they themselves shall mark out the way in which God shall work. The Lord God of Israel has opened the windows of heaven to send the earth rich floods of light, but in many cases there was no place made to receive it or give it room, when every man—ministers, pastors, and those who stand in responsible positions—should have welcomed the truth, old or new, and with missionary tact and glad thankfulness should cry, “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters.” [Isaiah 55:1.]Christ Triumphant
Christians Are God’s Agents, February 29
CTr 66.1
Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat. Isaiah 55:1.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 55, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 55, 1897, par. 14
The invitations of the gospel are not to be narrowed down and presented only to a select few who, we suppose, will do us honor if they accept the truth. The message is to be given to all. “Ho, everyone that thirsteth,” is the cry, “come ye the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.” [Isaiah 55:1.] “The Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take of the water of life freely.” [Revelation 22:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 7, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 7, 1901, par. 13
Look, thirsty, bewildered souls! Can ye not see the fountain of life opened for the weary, wayworn traveller? Can ye not hear the voice of mercy as she beckons to you saying, “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters.” [Isaiah 55:1.] “Whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” [Revelation 22:17.] The waters of this fountain contain medicinal properties which will heal spiritual and physical infirmities. All are invited to wash away their pollution in this fountain. Drink deeply from the fountain opened for Judah and Jerusalem. Then you can take the refreshing cup to parched, fainting souls.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 17, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 17, 1905, par. 16
It is for the object of soul-saving that our sanitariums are established. In our daily ministrations we see many careworn, sorrowful faces. What does the sorrow on these faces show? The need of the soul for the peace of Christ. Poor, sad human beings go to broken cisterns, which can hold no water, thinking to satisfy their thirst. Let them hear a voice saying, “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters.” [Isaiah 55:1.] Poor, weary, oppressed souls, seeking you know not what, come to the water of life. All heaven is yearning over you. Come unto Me, that ye may have life.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 79, 1912
25LtMs, Ms 79, 1912, par. 10
I am so thankful as I take the Word of God, and see what is spoken in that Word. In Isaiah we read, “Ho, every man that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.” [Isaiah 55:1.] The blessings are represented by the satisfaction you take in satisfying your temporal needs.Counsels on Health
Living Waters for Thirsty Souls
CH 211.2
It is for the object of soul saving that our sanitariums are established. In our daily ministrations we see many careworn, sorrowful faces. What does the sorrow on these faces show? The need of the soul for the peace of Christ. Poor, sad human beings go to broken cisterns, which can hold no water, thinking to quench their thirst. Let them hear a voice saying, “Ho, everyone that thirsteth, come ye to the waters,” “Come to Me, that ye might have life.” Isaiah 55:1; John 5:40.Our Father Cares
Peace Through the Cross, March 9
OFC 80.4
It is peace that you need—Heaven’s forgiveness and peace and love in the soul. Money cannot buy it, intellect cannot procure it, wisdom cannot attain to it; you can never hope, by your own efforts, to secure it. But God offers it to you as a gift, “without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1....Our Father Cares
Filled With His Righteousness, March 10
OFC 81.3
Not by painful struggles or wearisome toil, not by gift or sacrifice, is righteousness obtained; but it is freely given to every soul who hungers and thirsts to receive it. “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; ... without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1. “Their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord,” and, “This is his name whereby he shall be called, The Lord our righteousness.” Isaiah 54:17; Jeremiah 23:6.Patriarchs and Prophets
Chapter 37—The Smitten Rock
PP 413.2
Isaiah describes Him as the “rock of ages,” and “the shadow of a great rock in a weary land.” Isaiah 26:4 (margin); 32:2. And he records the precious promise, bringing vividly to mind the living stream that flowed for Israel: “When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the Lord will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them.” “I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground;” “in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert.” The invitation is given, “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters.” Isaiah 41:17; 44:3; 35:6; 55:1. And in the closing pages of the Sacred Word this invitation is echoed. The river of the water of life, “clear as crystal,” proceeds from the throne of God and the Lamb; and the gracious call is ringing down through the ages, “Whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Revelation 22:17.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9
Chapter 27—A Time of Trial Before Us
9T 228.1
Soon there is to be trouble all over the world. It becomes everyone to seek to know God. We have no time to delay. With earnestness and fervor the message must be given: “Ho, everyone that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1. “Thus saith the Lord, Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for My salvation is near to come, and My righteousness to be revealed. Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the Son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil.” Isaiah 56:1, 2.