EGW WritingsIsaiah 55
Ellen G. White · Page 2 of 2
Read Isaiah 55 in the BibleIsaiah 55:6-8
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 13, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 13, 1902, par. 47
For many months, excepting for a few nights, I have not been able to sleep past one o’clock. I find myself sitting in conversation with you, <and others>, pleading with you as a mother would plead with her son. “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, he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] What are the conditions of receiving pardon? “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found;” and, “Let him return unto the Lord.”17LtMs, Lt 13, 1902, par. 48
You are doubtless surprised, as I expected you would be, that I write to you in so plain and decided a manner. But this I must do; for I am made a steward of the grace of Christ, and I must do this errand for the Lord. You may feel well satisfied with yourself. You may deny the representation given me of your case. <Some are doing this today.> Read a little further. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.” [Verse 8.] This is the reason men and women do not always see their errors and mistakes, even when these are pointed out to them. They claim to believe the testimonies that come to them, until the message comes that they must change their plans and methods, that their character-building must be altogether different, else the storm and tempest will sweep it from its foundation. Then the enemy tempts them to justify themselves.Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]
MR No. 1418—The Danger of Prosperity; Talents To Be Used for God; An Appeal for New Commitment to Christ
19MR 390.2
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 55:6-8].Isaiah 55:6-9
The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Chapter 115—The Vision at Salamanca
1888 945.2
“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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 30, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 30, 1895, par. 39
The Lord is calling upon the church in Sydney, and saying, “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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 16, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 16, 1895, par. 14
I would raise the voice of warning to our people in Battle Creek, saying, “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.] “Who is among you that feareth the Lord, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness and hath no light? Let him trust in the name of the Lord, and stay upon his God. Behold all these that kindle a fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks: walk in the light of your fire, and in the sparks that ye have kindled. This shall ye have of my hand; ye shall lie down in sorrow.” [Isaiah 50:10, 11.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 101, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 101, 1896, par. 6
Christ came in human form, the express image of the Father’s character, to restore the moral image of God in man; and yet poor, fallen humanity exhibits the spirit of the fallen order to oppress and to destroy. Christ came to work as a restorer. He is the Desire of all nations, the Wonderful, Counsellor, the Prince of Peace, the glory of the world, yet He speaks, and let every finite man listen to His voice. Isaiah 55:6-9; 57:15.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 151a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 151a, 1897, 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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 151, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 151, 1897, par. 7
I have been directed to these words of the Lord, given to Isaiah, and also His words to His servant Jeremiah: “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 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, saith the Lord.” [Isaiah 55:6-9.] See also Isaiah 56:6-12.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 15, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 15, 1898, par. 14
I call upon you in the name of the Lord. “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 way 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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 145, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 145, 1899, par. 21
God’s people must make no delay if they wish the Lord to fulfill His promises to them. I have been clearly led by the Lord to take up this matter. There are many neglected ones who have cried to the Lord because of the indifference of their brethren. The representative men among us need to feel the converting power of God. I am constrained by the Holy Spirit to tell my brethren in positions of trust to 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. 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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 16, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, par. 44
There is a work to be done, for God is in earnest with us. “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 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.” [Isaiah 55:6-9.]The Kress Collection
Unity Among Believers
KC 112.9
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.[”] Isaiah 55:6-9.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 130, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 130, 1902, par. 36
It is time that we made a move to seek God 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. 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.” [Isaiah 55:6-9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 136, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 136, 1902, par. 24
Will the people of God comply with the conditions laid down in the Word of God? Their future happiness depends on their obedience. “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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 22c, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 22c, 1890, par. 4
I beseech you, my brother, who have shown so much weakness, “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 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.” [Isaiah 55:6-9.] “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.” [Psalm 51:17.] “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.” “For the iniquity of his covetousness was I wroth, and smote him: I hid me, and was wroth, and he went on frowardly in the way of his heart.” [Isaiah 57:15, 17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 40, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 40, 1890, par. 96
“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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 1a, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 1a, 1890, par. 2
Your probationary time is very precious. Let not your own hand shorten it one hour. Jesus now waits to be gracious; He calls you to seek the Lord while He may be found, and call 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.] It looks to you as though your sins are too great to be forgiven. The Lord answers you, “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 higher than your thoughts.” [Verses 8, 9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 41, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 41, 1890, par. 67
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. 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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 92, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 92, 1891, par. 2
God calls upon you to humble yourselves under His mighty hand and to confess your sins and put them away, and He will lift you up. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Ministers, high and low, you have no time now to complain of your unsuccessful labor. Flee to Jesus, take hold of Him by living faith, lay hold of His strength, and make peace with Him. You have too great a desire for the praise of men. “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 as 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.” [Isaiah 55:6-9.] “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy” (mark the words); “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.] “Thus saith the Lord, the Redeemer of Israel, and his Holy One, to him whom man despiseth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a servant of rulers, kings shall see and arise, princes also shall worship, because of the Lord that is faithful, and the Holy One of Israel, and he shall choose thee. Thus saith the Lord, in an acceptable time have I heard thee, and in a day of salvation have I helped thee; and I will preserve thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people to establish the earth, to cause to inherit the desolate heritages; that thou mayest say to the prisoners, Go forth; to them that are in darkness, show yourselves. They shall feed in the ways, and their pastures shall be in all high places. They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them; for he that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them. And I will make all my mountains a way, my highways shall be exalted. Behold, these shall come from afar; and lo, these from the North and the West; and these from the land of Sinim. Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O mountains; for the Lord hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon his afflicted. But Zion saith, The Lord hath forsaken me, my Lord hath forgotten me. Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? Yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee. Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me.” [Isaiah 49:7-16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 48, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 48, 1894, par. 22
And now, I would say, Let us get ready. Now is the accepted time; now is the day of salvation. “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” (no ifs or ands about it) “have mercy upon him; and to our God for he will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] And then He explains why. “My ways are not your ways.” Why, one of you, if another of the human nature should offend you, you would let him go. Christ holds on to you. “My ways are not your ways, nor your ways my ways, saith the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” [Verses 8, 9.] Although you have been sinners against me all your lives, you have robbed me of the service that was my due, and yet I will pardon abundantly. You are transgressors and sinners. Is not this an invitation from God to you, and can you resist it? God grant that you may turn, while you can and live.Isaiah 55:6-11
Manuscript Releases, vol. 3 [Nos. 162-209]
MR No. 183—Loyalty to Christ
3MR 226.7
“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 15 (1900)
Lt 124, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 124, 1900, par. 19
“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.” [Isaiah 55:6-11.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 134, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 134, 1900, par. 14
“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 20 (1905)
Ms 106, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 38
“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.]Living by Principle
Feelings
PH048 34.1
Isaiah 55:6, 10, 11: Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.... For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it to 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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 208, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 208, 1902, par. 31
Those who engage in the work of uprooting things in Nashville are not led by the Spirit of God, but by another spirit. Let the opposition develop; for such things will be seen in these last days. Amidst it all, God’s work will move forward, leaving behind the elements that would block the way; for truth is truth, falsehood is falsehood. A lie is not the truth. Many misrepresentations have been in circulation; but why should the truth be blanketed? Remove the blanket. Why should not the truth prevail? Can we doubt God’s Word? What has He ever said that He has not done? Is it not written, “My word ... shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing where to I sent it”? [Isaiah 55:11.]17LtMs, Lt 208, 1902, par. 36
The Lord bids me say to those who are opposing the work centering in Nashville: Discern your spiritual condition. Return to the first love that you have left. Satan is seeking to entice all to leave their first love and to devote their God-given talents to the enemy’s service, tearing down that which the Lord desires to build up. I ask those at Nashville and at Graysville, whose names I have not mentioned, to 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. 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.]Isaiah 55:6-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 97, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 97, 1905, par. 13
“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.]20LtMs, Lt 97, 1905, par. 15
“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.]The Paulson Collection of Ellen G. White Letters
MS. 178-’09
PC 297.3
(Isaiah 55:6-13) Let the instruction given in the fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah be studied in connection with these scriptures. Wonderful would be the results if ministers and church members would be converted, and adopt Christ’s manner of witnessing to the power of the Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 397, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 397, 1904, par. 4
“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 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 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 55:6-13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 98, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 98, 1893, par. 21
Your character is pronounced a sinful one, then accept the remedy. God has provided for you a sin-pardoning Saviour. What if the children of Israel kept looking at the poisonous serpent’s sting, exclaiming, “I am undone,” shrieking and groaning in their terror over their inflamed wounds. “How inconsistent,” you would exclaim. “Truly there was the brazen serpent uplifted. Why did they not look at that symbol of Christ, the world’s Saviour and live? How strange that he should not do so simple an act when it would save his life.” I address myself to you, Seek no longer your own feelings. Listen to the invitation, “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 55:6-7.8LtMs, Lt 98, 1893, par. 23
You are one of the “whosoever,” and your unbelief of God is the cherishing of thoughts that lie at the foundation of feeling that your case is hopeless. God says, “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 that 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 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 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.” Isaiah 55:8-13.Isaiah 55:7
Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 16—“Lost, and Is Found”
COL 204.3
In the parable there is no taunting, no casting up to the prodigal of his evil course. The son feels that the past is forgiven and forgotten, blotted out forever. And so God says to the sinner, “I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins,” Isaiah 44:22. “I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.” Jeremiah 31:34. “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. “In those days, and in that time, saith the Lord, the iniquity of Israel shall be sought for, and there shall be none; and the sins of Judah, and they shall not be found.” Jeremiah 50:20.Reflecting Christ
No Compromise With Evil, February 12
RC 57.1
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.Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 13—Importance of Receiving the Holy Spirit
1SM 111.1
As these words were spoken, I saw that some turned sadly away and mingled with the scoffers. Others, with tears, all broken in heart, made confession 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?” (Acts 16:30). The answer was, “Repent, and be converted, that your sins may go beforehand to judgment, and be blotted out.” Words were spoken which rebuked spiritual pride. This God will not tolerate. It is inconsistent with His Word and with our profession of faith. Seek the Lord, all ye who are ministers of His. Seek Him while He may be found, 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 55:7).Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 54—The Subject Presented in 1883
1SM 351.1
We must learn in the school of Christ. Nothing but His righteousness can entitle us to one of the blessings of the covenant of grace. We have long desired and tried to obtain these blessings, but have not received them because we have cherished the idea that we could do something to make ourselves worthy of them. We have not looked away from ourselves, believing that Jesus is a living Saviour. We must not think that our own grace and merits will save us; the grace of Christ is our only hope of salvation. Through His prophet the Lord promises, “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). We must believe the naked promise, and not accept feeling for faith. When we trust God fully, when we rely upon the merits of Jesus as a sin-pardoning Saviour, we shall receive all the help that we can desire.The Upward Look
When Mistakes Are Made, May 8
UL 142.1
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.This Day With God
How to Get Rid of Guilt, February 24
TDG 63.1
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.The General Conference Bulletin
December 1, 1895
GCB December 1, 1895, Art. A, par. 12
In the parable of the father and the son, there is no taunting, no casting up to the prodigal of his evil course; the boy feels that the past is forgiven and forgotten,—blotted out forever. And so God says to the sinner, “I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins.” “I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.” Isaiah 44:22; Jeremiah 31:34. “Let the wicked forsake their 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.” “In those days, and in that time, saith the Lord, the iniquity of Israel shall be sought for, and there shall be none; and the sins of Judah, and they shall not be found.” Isaiah 55:7; Jeremiah 50:20.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Merits of Christ Our Only Hope
2TT 91.4
We must learn in the school of Christ. Nothing but His righteousness can entitle us to one of the blessings of the covenant of grace. We have long desired and tried to obtain these blessings, but have not received them, because we have cherished the idea that we could do something to make ourselves worthy of them. We have not looked away from ourselves, believing that Jesus is a living Saviour. We must not think that our own grace and merits will save us; the grace of Christ is our only hope of salvation. Through His prophet the Lord promises, “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. We must believe the naked promise, and not accept feeling for faith. When we trust God fully, when we rely upon the merits of Jesus as a sin-pardoning Saviour, we shall receive all the help that we can desire.From Splendor to Shadow
Only Obedience Keeps From Apostasy
SS 43.4
All who enter the City of God will enter through the strait gate, for “there shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth.” Revelation 21:27. But none who have fallen need give up to despair. Aged men, once honored of God, may have defiled their souls, sacrificing virtue on the altar of lust; but if they repent, forsake sin, and turn to God, there is hope for them. “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. God hates sin, but He loves the sinner.Counsels for the Church
Chapter 5—Christ Our Righteousness
CCh 47.4
We must learn in the school of Christ. Nothing but His righteousness can entitle us to one of the blessings of the covenant of grace. We have long desired and tried to obtain these blessings but have not received them because we have cherished the idea that we could do something to make ourselves worthy of them. We have not looked away from ourselves, believing that Jesus is a living Saviour. We must not think that our own grace and merits will save us; the grace of Christ is our only hope of salvation. Through His prophet the Lord promises, “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. We must believe the naked promise, and not accept feeling for faith. When we trust God fully, when we rely upon the merits of Jesus as a sin-pardoning Saviour, we shall receive all the help that we can desire.Homeward Bound
Just as We Are, March 1
HB 78.4
God does not deal with us as finite human beings 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.)Homeward Bound
Grace From the Saviour, March 29
HB 106.2
We must learn in the school of Christ. Nothing but His righteousness can entitle us to one of the blessings of the covenant of grace. We have long desired and tried to obtain these blessings, but have not received them because we have cherished the idea that we could do something to make ourselves worthy of them. We have not looked away from ourselves, believing that Jesus is a living Saviour. We must not think that our own grace and merits will save us; the grace of Christ is our only hope of salvation. Through His prophet the Lord promises, “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.) We must believe the naked promise, and not accept feeling for faith. When we trust God fully, when we rely upon the merits of Jesus as a sin-pardoning Saviour, we shall receive all the help that we can desire.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 43, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 43, 1890, par. 11
Again we presented these souls, who were now seeking their Lord, in the arms of our faith and again were in the solemn prayers characterized by intense, earnest pleading and arguments before God, that in accordance with His precious promises He would be found of those who were seeking Him in sincerity and in truth, and would pardon their transgressions according to His pledged word; that He would reveal Himself to them as a sin-pardoning Saviour. “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 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 35, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 35, 1891, par. 52
Concerning the people of God in these last days, the prophet has written, “And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” [Revelation 12:17.] Darkness has covered the earth, and gross darkness the people. Will you choose to have the spirit of those who are in darkness? God forbid. I have hope that you will yet see the manner of spirit you are of and humble your heart before God. “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] “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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 6, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 6, 1893, par. 17
When the gates of the city of God will be opened will [we] be enabled to walk in? May our sins go beforehand to judgment. The investigative judgment takes place before Christ comes. We should weep between porch and altar crying, Spare thy people. Let them call upon the Lord. “Let the wicked forsake his way.” [Isaiah 55:7.] And he will have mercy upon him. Clear the king’s highway. Let your sins go beforehand to judgment. It is a case of life or death. May God let His blessing rest upon you that you may see light in His light and rejoice in His love.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 160, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 160, 1898, par. 10
The Lord is longsuffering, even to them that do evil. He permits even apostates and rebels to live. His tender compassion supplies their necessities, and He gives of His benefits to them all. “The Lord is good to all, and his tender mercies are over all his works. ... He openeth his hand, and satisfieth every living thing.” [Psalm 145:9, 16.] He is the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort. The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. We are to be strong in His goodness. He endures with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath, fitted for destruction. He calls upon them, “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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 141, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 141, 1898, par. 6
Hide yourself with Christ in God. He loves you. He asks for you. “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.] These promises are for you. “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.] Verses 16-19.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 160a, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 160a, 1898, par. 11
The Lord is longsuffering, even to them that do evil. He permits even apostates and rebels to live. His tender compassion supplies their necessities, and He gives of His benefits to them all. “The Lord is good to all, and his tender mercies are over all his works. ... He openeth his hand, and satisfieth every living thing.” [Psalm 145:9, 16.] He is the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. We are to be strong in His goodness. He endures with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath, fitted for destruction. He calls upon them, “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 55:7.] What greater encouragement that this could be given the sinner, to lead him to surrender his will, and profit by the Word of God.Faith and Works
Merits of Christ Our Only Hope
FW 36.1
We must learn in the school of Christ. Nothing but His righteousness can entitle us to one of the blessings of the covenant of grace. We have long desired and tried to obtain these blessings but have not received them because we have cherished the idea that we could do something to make ourselves worthy of them. We have not looked away from ourselves, believing that Jesus is a living Saviour. We must not think that our own grace and merits will save us; the grace of Christ is our only hope of salvation. Through His prophet the Lord promises, “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). We must believe the naked promise, and not accept feeling for faith. When we trust God fully, when we rely upon the merits of Jesus as a sin-pardoning Saviour, we shall receive all the help that we can desire.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 110, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 110, 1899, par. 6
My heart yearns after every member of the Wessels family. If Philip had been the faithful steward God designed him to be, the now wayward members of the family would not be on the enemy’s side. If their brother Philip, to whom they looked for counsel, had continued to be a true servant of the Lord Jesus, co-operating with Him, these precious ones would have been helped, their feet would now have been treading the narrow path of self-denial which their Saviour trod. The Lord is still saying, “Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” [John 6:37.] Thank God, the truth never changes, whatever course poor, tempted souls may pursue. Christ is still calling, “Return unto me, and I will return unto thee, and heal all thy backsliding.” [Malachi 3:7; Jeremiah 3:22.] “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts, and let him return unto the Lord, and I will have mercy upon him, and to our God; for he will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 198, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 198, 1899, par. 12
“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. ... For the iniquity of his covetousness was I wroth, and smote him: I hid me, and was wroth, and he went on frowardly in the way of his heart. I have seen his ways, and will heal him: I will lead him also, and restore comforts unto him”—while he is nursing rebellion? No; when he is repentant, contrite, and sorry for working at cross purposes with God. “I create the fruit of the lips; Peace, peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near, saith the Lord; and I will heal him. But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.” [Isaiah 57:15, 17-21.] “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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 25, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 25, 1900, par. 7
Those who turn from the truth to fables can look for no second probation. There will be no temporal millennium. If, after the Holy Spirit has brought conviction to their hearts, they resist the truth, and use their influence to block the way so that others will not receive it, they will never be convinced. They did not seek for transformation of character in the probation given them, and Christ will not give them opportunity to pass over the ground again. The decision is a final one. This is why I am so anxious that every one of the Wessels family shall seek the Lord while He is to be found and call upon Him while He is near. 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.” [Isaiah 55:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 76, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 76, 1903, par. 22
There is no taunting, no casting up to the prodigal of his evil course. The son feels that the past is forgiven and forgotten, blotted out forever. And so God says to the sinner, “I have blotted out as a thick cloud thy transgressions, and as a cloud thy sins.” [Isaiah 44:22.] “I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.” [Jeremiah 31:34.] “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.] “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.]Jesus, Name Above All Names
One Altogether Lovely, June 4
JNN 167.1
Let the wicked forsake his way,And the unrighteous man his thoughts;
Let him return to the LORD,
And He will have mercy on him.
—Isaiah 55:7
Jesus, Name Above All Names
Sin-Pardoning Saviour, October 30
JNN 319.3
We must learn in the school of Christ. Nothing but His righteousness can entitle us to one of the blessings of the covenant of grace. We have long desired and tried to obtain these blessings, but have not received them because we have cherished the idea that we could do something to make ourselves worthy of them. We have not looked away from ourselves, believing that Jesus is a living Saviour. We must not think that our own grace and merits will save us; the grace of Christ is our only hope of salvation. Through His prophet the Lord promises, “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). We must believe the naked promise, and not accept feeling for faith. When we trust God fully, when we rely upon the merits of Jesus as a sin-pardoning Saviour, we shall receive all the help that we can desire.Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Christ Our Righteousness
GW92 412.1
We must learn in the school of Christ. Nothing but his righteousness can entitle us to one of the blessings of the covenant of grace. We have long desired and tried to obtain these blessings, but have not received them, because we have cherished the idea that we could do something to make ourselves worthy of them. We have not looked away from ourselves, believing that Jesus is a living Saviour. We must not think that our own grace and merits will save us; the grace of Christ is our only hope of salvation. Through his prophet the Lord promises, “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.] We must believe the naked promise, and not accept feeling for faith. When we trust God fully, when we rely upon the merits of Jesus as a sin-pardoning, Saviour, we shall receive all the help that we can desire.In Heavenly Places
Abundantly Pardoned, February 13
HP 50.1
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.Manuscript Releases, vol. 13 [Nos. 1000-1080]
MR No. 1000—Counsel to a Man Who Handled Money Irresponsibly
13MR 3.2
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 the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon” [Isaiah 55:7].Patriarchs and Prophets
Chapter 71—David’s Sin and Repentance
PP 726.5
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. 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.Prayer
Chapter 28—Prayer in the Last Days
Pr 276.3
All who enter the City of God will enter through the strait gate—by agonizing effort; for “there shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth.” Revelation 21:27. But none who have fallen need give up to despair. Aged men, once honored of God, may have defiled their souls, sacrificing virtue on the altar of lust; but if they repent, forsake sin, and turn to God, there is still hope for them. He who declares, “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life,” also gives the invitation, “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.” Revelation 2:10; Isaiah 55:7. God hates sin, but He loves the sinner. “I will heal their backsliding,” He declares; “I will love them freely.” Hosea 14:4.—(Prophets and Kings, 83, 84.)Prophets and Kings
Chapter 5—Solomon’s Repentance
PK 84.1
All who enter the City of God will enter through the strait gate—by agonizing effort; for “there shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth.” Revelation 21:27. But none who have fallen need give up to despair. Aged men, once honored of God, may have defiled their souls, sacrificing virtue on the altar of lust; but if they repent, forsake sin, and turn to God, there is still hope for them. He who declares, “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life,” also gives the invitation, “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.” Revelation 2:10; Isaiah 55:7. God hates sin, but He loves the sinner. “I will heal their backsliding,” He declares; “I will love them freely.” Hosea 14:4.Isaiah 55:7-8
Our Father Cares
Hope for the Hopeless, April 2
OFC 104.1
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. Isaiah 55:7, 8.Our High Calling
Hope for the Hopeless, January 21
OHC 27.1
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. Isaiah 55:7, 8.Isaiah 55:7-9
Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]
MR No. 1488—The Importance of Medical Missionary Work; Health Reform to Be Practiced
20MR 330.3
God calls upon His people to be converted. “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 55:7-9).Prayer
“Forgive us our sins; for we also forgive everyone that is indebted to us.” Luke 11:4.
Pr 298.1
But forgiveness has a broader meaning than many suppose. When God gives the promise that He “will abundantly pardon,” He adds, as if the meaning of that promise exceeded all that we could comprehend: “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 55:7-9. God’s forgiveness is not merely a judicial act by which He sets us free from condemnation. It is not only forgiveness for sin, but reclaiming from sin. It is the outflow of redeeming love that transforms the heart. David had the true conception of forgiveness when he prayed, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10. And again he says, “As far as the east is from the west, so far hath He removed our transgressions from us.” Psalm 103:12.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Forgive us our sins; for we also forgive everyone that is indebted to us.”—Luke 11:4.
MB 114.1
But forgiveness has a broader meaning than many suppose. When God gives the promise that He “will abundantly pardon,” He adds, as if the meaning of that promise exceeded all that we could comprehend: “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 55:7-9. God’s forgiveness is not merely a judicial act by which He sets us free from condemnation. It is not only forgiveness for sin, but reclaiming from sin. It is the outflow of redeeming love that transforms the heart. David had the true conception of forgiveness when he prayed, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10. And again he says, “As far as the east is from the west, so far hath He removed our transgressions from us.” Psalm 103:12.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 152, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 152, 1901, par. 24
God calls upon His people to be converted. “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 55:7-9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 135, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 135, 1902, par. 25
God calls upon His people to be converted. “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 55:7-9.]Isaiah 55:7-11
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 76, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 76, 1898, par. 11
The willing and obedient, after being tested and proved, God declares, “shall eat of the good of the land.” [Isaiah 1:19.] “Let the wicked forsake his way,” He says, “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.] Why does He bear so long with the perversity of those who are stubborn and rebellious, and whose influence is exercised to lead others to sin? “My thoughts are not your thoughts,” He says, “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.” [Verses 8, 9.]13LtMs, Lt 76, 1898, par. 24
The Lord Jesus gave His life for you. He says, “Return unto me, and I will return unto thee, and heal all thy backsliding.” [Malachi 3:7; Jeremiah 3:22.] “Behold the Lord’s arm is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear; but your sins have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.” [Isaiah 59:1, 2.] But the Lord calls to you, “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 55:7.]13LtMs, Lt 76, 1898, par. 25
“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 send it.” [Verses 8-11.]Isaiah 55:8
Reflecting Christ
God Teaches Self-distrust Through Trials, December 10
RC 358.1
My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. Isaiah 55:8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 22, 1872
2LtMs, Lt 22, 1872, par. 25
I have not written nor told all I know of Mrs. Harris, neither shall I at present. I have felt that she should never say that she was condemned and disfellowshipped upon the testimonies alone. But facts have been brought forth that would be of sufficient weight to separate her from the fellowship of the church if not half as strong. God seeth not as man seeth; He judgeth not by appearance. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways,” saith God, “higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8. “Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the Lord.” Jeremiah 23:24.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 14, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 14, 1894, par. 20
But you who feel that you ought to have your own way, you will be among that company that will receive the seven last plagues of God. “Your way is not my way, neither are your thoughts my thoughts, saith the Lord.” [Isaiah 55:8.] God makes no compromise [with] the enemy. When you surrender your heart to God, you will say, “A new heart hath He given me; a new song hath He put in my mouth,” and He will make melody to flow in your heart.Isaiah 55:8-9
Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 28—The Reward of Grace
COL 396.5
The householder’s dealing with the workers in his vineyard represents God’s dealing with the human family. It is contrary to the customs that prevail among men. In worldly business, compensation is given according to the work accomplished. The laborer expects to be paid only that which he earns. But in the parable, Christ was illustrating the principles of His kingdom—a kingdom not of this world. He is not controlled by any human standard. The Lord says, “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways.... For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8, 9.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 85, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 85, 1894, par. 2
I received your letter Tuesday, and was very glad to hear from you and Emma again. The preparation of mail to send to America, and the reception of mail from America, are stirring times in our history, and if we are not very careful both the going out of mail and the coming of the mail has a telling influence upon me that is not the most favorable. Your last letter brings also a letter from the colored [brother], Bro. Buster. I read your account of him, and also his own intelligent, well-written letter. I cannot help but be pleased with the letter and I would advise our brother that, if possible, he take up the burden the Lord seems to lay upon him, ever bearing in mind that Jesus is a safe Counsellor. He never makes a mistake. Men may reason from policy principles, and judge from a human standpoint; but this is not the Lord’s way, “for my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are my ways your ways; for as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways.” [Isaiah 55:8, 9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 45, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 45, 1895, par. 4
There is danger that men will receive the counsel of men, when by so doing they will discard the counsel of God. O, what lessons all must learn before they will understand that God seeth not as man seeth. The Lord says, “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 55:8, 9.] There will be a decided reformation among the people of God or else He will turn His face away from them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 24b, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 24b, 1896, par. 7
In this time of trouble, when we long to advance, and yet are unable to because of the difficulties which confront us, let every member of the church remember that he is a chosen agent, called by God to do an appointed work. We have done all we thought it possible for us to do, and we must not fall into discouragements because trials come. A good work has been begun in this place, and does the Lord intend that it shall stop now? No, I answer, No. Let not any heart fail, for the Lord knows that we need means with which to build a meeting house and school. There is no money in the treasury, but shall our faith demand sight before it can work? God forbid. Let us trust in the Lord and wait patiently for Him; His thoughts are not our thoughts, or His ways our ways, “for as the heavens are higher than the earth,” saith the Lord, “so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” [Isaiah 55:8, 9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 24, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 24, 1896, par. 3
Let us put to use every power which God has mercifully given us and do our best to bring about the improvements in the cultivation of land and in putting up buildings, and then trust in the Lord and wait patiently for Him to do that for us which we are unable to do. His thoughts are not our thoughts, or His ways our ways, “for as the heavens are higher than the earth,” saith the Lord, “so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” [Isaiah 55:8, 9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 87, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 87, 1899, par. 8
The law of nature is that we reap that which we sow. But Christ was here dealing with the principles of the law of His kingdom. He did not care how other people regarded Him, but steadily worked out His purpose according to His own standard. His management of the workers in His vineyard represents God’s dealing with the human family. God declares, “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are my ways your ways. ... For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” [Isaiah 55:8, 9.] Christ came to this earth to represent God, and He was not bound about by the actions of any other householder. He worked according to the laws of the kingdom which is not of this world. He did not aim to follow any human standard.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 77, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 77, 1902, par. 7
You do not reason altogether correctly. Saith the Lord, “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, ... For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” [Isaiah 55:8, 9.] The Lord surprises us by His manner of dealing.Conflict and Courage
God’s Ways, August 10
CC 228.1
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 55:8, 9.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
Chapter 23—Go Forth Into Many Places
8T 146.1
There is danger that men will receive the counsel of men, when by so doing they will discard the counsel of God. Oh, what lessons all must learn before they will understand that God seeth not as man seeth. The Lord says: “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways.... For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8, 9. Unless there is a decided reformation among the people of God, He will turn His face from them.The Great Controversy
Chapter 19—Light Through Darkness
GC 343.3
“Canst thou by searching find out God? canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection?” “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.” “I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done.” Job 11:7; Isaiah 55:8, 9; 46:9, 10.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 19—Light Through Darkness
GC88 343.3
“Canst thou by searching find out God? canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection?” “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.” “I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done.” [Job 11:7; Isaiah 55:8, 9; 46:9, 10.]The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Chapter 33—To My Dear Brethren
1888 279.1
There are ways by which the Lord leads and guides His people. God has all wisdom and all knowledge. He has said, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” James 1:5. Oh that all those who claimed to be God’s chosen servants would have felt that they were in need of wisdom, in the place of their feeling the perfect wholeness which they did feel. Much talking and inflaming one another were not wanting, and ridiculing those whom God had raised up to do a special work. They had, like brethren, taken their Bibles and searched the Scriptures and bowed upon their knees before God in earnest prayer, claiming the promises of God for divine guidance. In this time of peril, as we are nearing the period of an important crisis, it is only reasonable that we should expect something of the revealings of greater light to the people; and how did these men who had allowed their minds to be filled with prejudice and jealousy know but God had made these men messengers to give light and truth to the people? What right had they to set themselves in dead array against these ministers of Christ, even if they thought that their ideas did conflict with previous ideas on some points? Why not spend the hours together in prayer to God, in fasting, in deep heart-searching? “Let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven of the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.” James 1:6, 7. The true, earnest seeker will give up his way for God’s ways, that he may be guided into paths wherein God may choose to lead him, where the Lord has great blessings awaiting him, although it may seem to short-sighted human beings there is only loss and disaster. “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 55:8, 9.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
The Mysteries of the Bible a Proof of Its Inspiration
2TT 303.1
Canst thou by searching find out God? canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection? It is as high as heaven; what canst thou do? deeper than hell; what canst thou know?” Job 11:7, 8. “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 55:8, 9. “I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done.” Isaiah 46:9, 10. It is impossible for the finite minds of men to fully comprehend the character or the works of the Infinite One. To the keenest intellect, to the most powerful and highly educated mind, that holy Being must ever remain clothed in mystery.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 3, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 3, 1886, par. 34
God says, “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts higher than your thoughts.” [Isaiah 55:8, 9.] Then let finite beings be humble and submissive in their desires, realizing that God uses many influences which it is beyond their power to control. We must take self in hand, we must do our duty faithfully, and in this work peace and rest and happiness will come. We must discipline self, seeking to bring it under the control of intelligent reason. We must have a true sense of what the last six commandments mean. There are opportunities daily of practicing forgetfulness of self and being a blessing to those around us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 85, 1889
6LtMs, Lt 85, 1889, par. 10
The true, earnest seeker will give up his way for God’s ways, that he may be guided into paths wherein God may choose to lead him, where the Lord has great blessings awaiting him, although it may seem to short-sighted human beings there is only loss and disaster. “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 55:8, 9.Isaiah 55:8-11
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 78, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 78, 1893, par. 18
“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 whereunto I sent it.” Isaiah 55:8-11.Isaiah 55:8-13
Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
The Reward of Service
GW 515.2
Often our merciful Father encourages His children and strengthens their faith by permitting them here to see evidence of the power of His grace upon the hearts and lives of those for whom they labor. “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. 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.” [Isaiah 55:8-13.]Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6
Chapter 37—The Reward of Service
6T 308.1
And often our merciful Father encourages His children and strengthens their faith by permitting them here to see evidence of the power of His grace upon the hearts and lives of those for whom they labor. “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. 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.” Isaiah 55:8-13.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 20, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 20, 1892, par. 39
“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.” [Isaiah 55:8-13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 35, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 35, 1892, par. 4
“Where shall wisdom be found? and where is the place of understanding? Man knoweth not the price thereof; neither is it found in the land of the living.” “Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.” Job 28:12, 13, 28. Psalm 17:7, 8 and Isaiah 55:8-13 also quoted.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 150, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 150, 1899, par. 12
“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. 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.” [Isaiah 55:8-13.]Isaiah 55:9
Maranatha
Satisfying Answers, November 9
Mar 321.1
As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:9.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 54, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 54, 1894, par. 16
It is a dangerous thing for men to resist the Spirit of truth and grace and righteousness, because its manifestations are not according to their idea and have not come in the line of their methodical plans. The Lord works in His own way, and according to His own devising. Let men pray that they may be divested of self and may be in harmony with heaven. Let them pray, “Not my will, but thine, be done.” [Luke 22:42.] Let men bear in mind that God’s ways are not their ways, nor His thoughts their thoughts, for He says, “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:9.Jesus, Name Above All Names
Wise and Mighty Counselor, July 5
JNN 199.1
“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.”—Isaiah 55:9Isaiah 55:10
Lift Him Up
Fruit Bearing, September 17
LHU 274.1
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. Isaiah 55:10.Isaiah 55:10-11
Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 3—“First the Blade, Then the Ear”
COL 65.1
The good seed may for a time lie unnoticed in a cold, selfish, worldly heart, giving no evidence that it has taken root; but afterward, as the Spirit of God breathes on the soul, the hidden seed springs up, and at last bears fruit to the glory of God. In our lifework we know not which shall prosper, this or that. This is not a question for us to settle. We are to do our work, and leave the results with God. “In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand.” Ecclesiastes 11:6. God’s great covenant declares that “while the earth remaineth, seed-time and harvest ... shall not cease.” Genesis 8:22. In the confidence of this promise the husbandman tills and sows. Not less confidently are we in the spiritual sowing to labor, trusting His assurance, “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 55:11. “He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Psalm 126:6.COL 67.2
The plant does not germinate, grow, or bring forth fruit for itself, but to “give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater.” Isaiah 55:10. So no man is to live unto himself. The Christian is in the world as a representative of Christ, for the salvation of other souls.Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]
MR No. 581—Relationship of Prayer to Soulwinning
8MR 194.4
We are lamentably deficient in faith. We need a firmer belief in the words, “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 55:10, 11.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 261, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 261, 1899, par. 4
“The kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.” [Matthew 11:12.] Sometimes there is need of patience united with perseverance, that “as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and return not thither again, but water the earth and make 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 the thing whereunto I sent it.” [Isaiah 55:10, 11.] Now, this warrants us to have a very strong expectation. We need more faith, much more faith. You must give yourselves far more to earnest, humble prayer and ask with the simplicity of a child. There is a deeper experience for you to gain. Search the Word of life and let the Lord’s Word come to the people through you.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 49, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 49, 1903, par. 15
We are lamentably deficient in faith. We need a firmer belief in the words, “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 55:10, 11.] We must pray more earnestly than we have done in the past for the deep moving of the Holy Spirit. We must not depend upon money as our means of success. All the riches in the world could not save one soul. But we can, through the Holy Spirit’s power, draw near to souls and lead them to look away from the things of earth to the things of heaven, to lift their eyes to Christ. We must consecrate all the powers of our being to the work of rescuing those whom Satan is seeking to draw to destruction. And in this work Christ is to be exalted as all and in all.Isaiah 55:10-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 49, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 49, 1901, par. 7
Let us not complain. Let there be no complaints in our mouth. Let not our lips utter perverseness. Talk not darkness; talk light. “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 55:10, 11.]16LtMs, Lt 49, 1901, par. 8
Let everyone hold up the hands of his fellow worker. Let no one talk discouragement. “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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 274, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 274, 1903, par. 5
Do not let your lips utter perverseness. Do not talk unbelief; talk hope. “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 the thing whereto I sent it.” [Isaiah 55:10, 11.]18LtMs, Lt 274, 1903, par. 6
Let every worker hold up the hands of his fellow worker. Let no one talk discouragement. “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.]The Ministry of Healing
Learning by Imparting
MH 406.1
“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 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 55:10-13.
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 139, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 139, 1899, par. 29
The richest promises of the Word of God are ours if we will accept the condition of obedience. Through the prophet Isaiah God declares, “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 the thing which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I send it. 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.” [Isaiah 55:10-13.]Isaiah 55:11
Education
Sowing in Faith
Ed 105.2
For a time the good seed may lie unnoticed in the heart, giving no evidence that it has taken root; but afterward, as the Spirit of God breathes on the soul, the hidden seed springs up, and at last brings forth fruit. In our lifework we know not which shall prosper, this or that. This question it is not for us to settle. “In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand.” Ecclesiastes 11:6. God’s great covenant declares that “while the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest ... shall not cease.” Genesis 8:22. In the confidence of this promise the husbandman tills and sows. Not less confidently are we, in the spiritual sowing, to labor, trusting His assurance: “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.” “He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Isaiah 55:11; Psalm 126:6.Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Consecration to the Work
GW92 38.3
We entreat the heralds of the gospel of Christ never to become discouraged in the work, never to regard the most hardened sinner as beyond the reach of the grace of God. Such may accept the truth in the love of it, and become the salt of the earth. He who turns the hearts of men as the rivers of water are turned, can bring the most selfish, sin-hardened soul to surrender to Christ. Is anything too hard for God to do? “My word,” he says, “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 55:11.]Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
A Season of Trust and Privilege
GW 267.2
I entreat the heralds of the gospel of Christ never to become discouraged, never to regard the most hardened sinner as beyond the reach of the grace of God. The one apparently hopeless may accept the truth in the love of it. He who turns the hearts of men as the rivers of water are turned, can bring the most selfish, sin-hardened soul to Christ. Is anything too hard for God to do? “My word,” He declares, “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 55:11.]Isaiah 55:13
Darkness Before Dawn
The Glory of Paradise
DD 61.4
There, “the wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.” “Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree.” “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; ... and a little child shall lead them.” “They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain,” saith the Lord. Isaiah 35:1; 55:13; 11:6, 9....The Story of Jesus
Chapter 32—The Home of the Saved
SJ 185.3
There, “the wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.” “Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the briar shall come up the myrtle tree.” Isaiah 35:1; 55:13.The Review and Herald
July 1, 1915
RH July 1, 1915, Art. A, par. 20
“In the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert. And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water.” Isaiah 35:6, 7. “Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree.” Isaiah 55:13. “And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.” Isaiah 35:8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 65, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 65, 1895, par. 31
There is a disposition to grasp everything, to destroy individuality, and ignore individual accountability; yet no compunction has thus far been aroused. A state of things is coming in after the mold of men, and not after the Lord’s order. When the truth becomes an abiding principle in the soul, then we shall see the words of the prophet fulfilled; instead of the thorn, the fir tree will spring up, instead of the brier, the myrtle; and life’s desert will blossom as the rose. [Isaiah 55:13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 122, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 122, 1895, par. 8
There is a disposition to grasp everything, and to destroy individuality and ignore individual accountability; yet no compunction has thus far been aroused. A state of things is coming in after the mold of men, and not after the Lord’s order. When the truth becomes an abiding principle in the soul, then we shall see the words of the prophet fulfilled: instead of the thorn, the fir-tree will spring up; instead of the brier, the myrtle, and life’s desert will blossom as the rose. [Isaiah 55:13; 35:1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 329a, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 329a, 1905, par. 20
“It shall be to the Lord for a name and an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.” [Isaiah 55:13.] This is what our people need today in all our churches. In the blessed results of the gospel presented in its purity, infidels and rationalists will see evidence that can not be controverted.God’s Amazing Grace
All Suffering Ended, December 19
AG 361.4
There, “the wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them: and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose” (Isaiah 35:1). “Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree” (Isaiah 55:13). “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; ... and a little child shall lead them” (Isaiah 11:6). “They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain” (verse 9), saith the Lord.33The Great Controversy, 674-676.Heaven
Chapter 15—The Earth Made New
Hvn 144.2
There, “the wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.” “Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree.” “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; ... and a little child shall lead them.” “They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain,” saith the Lord. Isaiah 35:1; 55:13; Isaiah 11:6, 9.—The Great Controversy, 675, 676.Maranatha
Inheritance of the Saved, December 11
Mar 353.3
There, “the wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.” “Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree.” “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; ... and a little child shall lead them.” “They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain,” saith the Lord. Isaiah 35:1; 55:13; Isaiah 11:6, 9.26The Great Controversy, 675, 676.Prophets and Kings
Chapter 60—Visions of Future Glory
PK 729.5
“Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the Lord’s hand double for all her sins.” Isaiah 65:18, 19; 33:24; 35:6, 7; 55:13; 35:8; 40:2.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 31—The Sermon on the Mount
DA 302.4
“Blessed are the peacemakers.” The peace of Christ is born of truth. It is harmony with God. The world is at enmity with the law of God; sinners are at enmity with their Maker; and as a result they are at enmity with one another. But the psalmist declares, “Great peace have they which love Thy law: and nothing shall offend them.” Psalm 119:165. Men cannot manufacture peace. Human plans for the purification and uplifting of individuals or of society will fail of producing peace, because they do not reach the heart. The only power that can create or perpetuate true peace is the grace of Christ. When this is implanted in the heart, it will cast out the evil passions that cause strife and dissension. “Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree;” and life’s desert “shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.” Isaiah 55:13; 35:1.The Faith I Live By
Heaven a Real Place, December 28
FLB 368.5
There, “the wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.” Isaiah 35:1. “Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree.” Isaiah 55:13. “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; ... and a little child shall lead them.” Isaiah 11:6.67The Great Controversy, 674-676.The Great Controversy
Chapter 42—The Controversy Ended
GC 675.3
There, “the wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.” “Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree.” “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; ... and a little child shall lead them.” “They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain,” saith the Lord. Isaiah 35:1; 55:13; 11:6, 9.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 42—The Controversy Ended
GC88 675.3
There, “the wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.” “Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir-tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree.” [Isaiah 35:1; 55:13.] “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; ... and a little child shall lead them.” “They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain,” [Isaiah 11:6, 9; 33:24; 62:3; 65:19.] saith the Lord.EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Isaiah 55:6-7
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 80, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 80, 1900, par. 18
I entreat you, my brother, to obey the will of God. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found; call ye upon him while he is nigh,” while He is saying to you, “My son, give me thine heart,” “Let the wicked forsake his way,” and no longer live in transgression of the law, but in love and obedience, “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; Proverbs 23:26.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1547—Trials and Blessings at the Newcastle Camp Meeting; Abiding in Christ and Resting in His Love
21MR 232.4
“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 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 16 (1901)
Lt 101, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 101, 1901, par. 8
The Lord calls upon all to seek Him now, while He may be found; to 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 16 (1901)
Ms 151, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, par. 23
My brethren, it is altogether too late in the day to be half-hearted, serving divers lusts, and cherishing traits of character that will exclude you from heaven. You cannot put away the evils of your doing too soon. I beseech you to make thorough work for eternity. Now is the accepted time, beloved; now is the day of salvation. “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 17 (1902)
Ms 116, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 116, 1902, par. 44
But there is hope for the wicked. God is calling them to Himself. He bids them come. He desires to shed upon them the light of His countenance. To every sin-sick soul He is saying: “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.] Let us accept His promise. Let us point others to the One so willing to pardon them. We see so many in misery and distress. To such we can bring happiness by leading them to accept God’s promises and to appropriate them to themselves. The Lord will hide the sins and blot out the iniquities of those who accept Him with heart, and soul, and mind, and strength. May God help every one of us to do this; for when we find Him, we shall be able to praise Him, glorifying and honoring His name. Then shall we be able to say, “O Zion, that bringest good tidings, get thee up into the high mountains: O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up, be not afraid: say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God.” [Isaiah 40:9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 7, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 7, 1902, par. 33
Let all these representations be urged home upon men and women, that they may 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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 5, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 5, 1903, par. 13
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 them; and to our God; for He will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 165, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 165, 1903, par. 14
There are among professing believers many who know little of what is comprehended in the third angel’s message. They have not followed the straight pathway of truth. They have not purified their souls by obeying the Word. They are unconverted. They need to “seek the Lord while He may be found, and 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 18 (1903)
Ms 34, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 34, 1903, par. 25
“Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, and 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.] This shows us that we must “seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness.” [Matthew 6:33.] Then we must enlarge our desires, and be ready to receive the blessing which God will bestow upon those who seek Him with the whole heart, in sincerity and truth. We must keep the heart open, that the grace of Christ may enter.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 320, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 320, 1905, par. 1
It is not possible for me to describe the intense burden I have for your soul. I have written you many letters, setting before you the messages God has given me for you and the sadness of my heart in your behalf. I now beseech you, for your soul’s sake, 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, and He will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 378, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 378, 1907, par. 24
I am to say to the people of God, Take heed that ye be not deceived. “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 23 (1908)
Ms 115, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 115, 1908, par. 66
“As these words were spoken, I saw that some turned sadly away and mingled with the scoffers. Others, with tears, all broken in heart, made confession 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?’ [Acts 16:30.] 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 which rebuked spiritual pride. This God will not tolerate. It is inconsistent with His Word and with our profession of faith. Seek the Lord, all ye who are ministers of Him. Seek Him while He may be found, 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 24 (1909)
Ms 45, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, par. 20
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, and unto our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 9, 1910
25LtMs, Ms 9, 1910, par. 4
Although we may have followed our own way for a time, it is possible for us to return and get into line. We ought to be grateful to God for the privilege of returning when we have gone astray. The Lord sees that it is not best for us to go as we please and refuse to unite with our brethren who do not view matters just as we may view them. He sees that it is best for man to yield his wilful spirit. We who claim to believe the truths of God’s Word are to come into line while we still have opportunity to harmonize with our brethren. “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 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 47, 1910
25LtMs, Ms 47, 1910, par. 4
Although some may have followed their own way for a time, it is possible for them to return and get into line. The Lord sees that it is not best for His children to be allowed to do as they please and refuse to unite with their brethren who view matters somewhat differently from the way in which they may view them. He invites those who claim to believe the truths of His Word to come into line while they still have opportunity to harmonize with their brethren. “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 for the Church, vol. 8
Chapter 18—The Review and Herald Fire
8T 99.4
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.Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce
Chapter 6—Counsels to Walter and Laura
TSB 65.2
Entirely Reckless and Careless?—Can you afford to do this? Have you become entirely reckless and careless in regard to your soul? I have a message from God to you that you need not despair, but return unto the Lord. “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).