The Pulpit Commentary on Isaiah 58:2

The Pulpit Commentary · Joseph S. Exell and contributors · Public domain

Delight in God.

"Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways." Religion is little if it is not delight in God. This is its true touchstone. It is what we love that constitutes an abiding test. If we do not feel at heart the blessedness of religion, we may discover that we are only seeking it for selfish safety, or for the world's approval of a respectable name.

I. THE DAILY ORISON. We seek that which we desire; and how ingenious is love in finding words of communication and opportunities of intercourse of heart with heart! A look may carry with it prosperity and hope. Prayer is not in words, nor, let us remember, is it in thoughts; it is what we desire that we really pray for. Our wishes are our supplications. What your heart is eager after is the devotion that God sees. "Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my thoughts." "They seek me daily." Communion with God is not a cry in danger, or a beseechment in hours of special anxiety and necessity; it is an Enoch-like life—a "walk with God."

II. THE DELIGHTFUL KNOWLEDGE. "Delight to know my ways."

1. That they may follow God.

2. That they may see God in everything.

3. That they may please God.

4. That they may be prepared to live in him and with him for ever.—W.M.S.

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