Near
Isaiah 46:12-13 (Amplified)
Listen to Me, you stiff-hearted and you who have lost heart, you who are far from righteousness (from uprightness and right standing with God, and from His righteous deliverance).
I bring near My righteousness [in the deliverance of Israel], it will not be far off; and My salvation shall not tarry. And I will put salvation in Zion, for Israel My glory [yes, give salvation in Zion and My glory to Israel].
Things aren’t always as they would appear. Oftentimes it would seem, according to our own perceptions that things just aren’t right, that wholeness and completed purpose are somewhere far, far away. For the one who chooses to have their vision adjusted by the Holy One, however, there is an assurance and a comfort that, no matter how distant it may appear, His judgment with favor is very near.
There are two types of folks who are affected by the misperception of righteousness’ distance, those who might feel there is nothing legitimate about God and His followers and those who have been following Him with all that is in them, but have lost heart and hope with the overwhelming impact of salvation’s apparent distance. Any delay beyond expectations or hopes has the potential of tearing down faith and undermining the most important relationship of all.
Just around the next corner or over the next small hill a challenge awaits. If there is just another stretch of road or another hidden outcome, there will be reason to give up on the journey altogether and retreat to a more predictable place. Salvation, though, is a journey made by steps of faith that keep pressing towards a mark and never let go of that promise of life. When the prize is the focus, each milestone is but another reason to be encouraged that we’re just that much closer. The very things that are set up as challenges and roadblocks can become evidence that progress has been made. Instead of being discouraged and disappointed by the delay, it can, instead bring perfection to a resolve that has been established in the presence of the Master. When it is He who is taking every step with us, there is an overwhelming assurance that He holds all things in His hands, that His salvation is as near as a prayer. When it is His voice we’re hearing, there will only be encouragement and strength in His words. He will only reaffirm what He has already spoken, and if He said it, you can know it will come to pass. The only way complete salvation will never be known is if we can be convinced to give up and forsake the hope of His promise.
But, there is joy unspeakable, peace beyond understanding, and provision greater than containers oh so near for those who have discovered that all of this is found in Him rather than in circumstances. Just never giving up on wholeness that is right here and right now in Him will have great reward, fulfillment and God’s glory revealed.
Heb 10:36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.
