Isaiah 46:12

Arabic KEH Ketab El Hayat (كتاب الحياة)

أَصْغُوا إِلَيَّ يَاغِلاَظَ الْقُلُوبِ أَيُّهَا الْبَعِيدُونَ عَنِ الْبِرِّ،

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Isaiah says that God is speaking to people who are strong-willed and not living righteously. God is calling these people to listen and change their ways.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a friend who always does what they want, even if it's not the right thing to do. This verse is like God saying, 'Hey, you strong-willed friends, listen to me! I want to help you do what's right.'

Historical Background

Isaiah, a prophet in the Old Testament, wrote this verse around 700 BCE. He was addressing the people of Israel, who had turned away from God's ways, to remind them of their need to return to righteousness.

Living It Out Today

Today, this verse can apply to someone who is stubbornly sticking to their own ways despite knowing what's right. For instance, a manager might ignore ethical practices in pursuit of profits, but this verse encourages them to listen and change for the better.

Topics

• righteousness
• obedience
• repentance
• God's call
• stubbornness
• change

Related Verses

• Isaiah 1:18
• Jeremiah 29:13
• Romans 2:4
• Ephesians 4:17
• James 4:6

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is considered 'stouthearted'?

The term 'stouthearted' refers to people who are strong-willed or stubborn, often refusing to listen to advice or guidance, even when it's for their own good.

What does 'far from righteousness' mean in this context?

Being 'far from righteousness' means living a life that is distant from what God considers good and just. It implies that one's actions and choices are not aligned with God's will.

How can someone apply this verse to their life?

One can apply this verse by acknowledging their need to listen to God's guidance and to seek a closer alignment with God's righteousness, even if it means changing stubborn habits or beliefs.

What is the significance of Isaiah calling out to the 'stouthearted'?

By calling out to the 'stouthearted', Isaiah emphasizes the importance of reaching out to those who resist change, showing that God still desires to bring them back to a righteous path.