In the first chapter of the book of Isaiah God gave an indictment against the nation of Israel.  He said, “they have gone away backward” (Isaiah 1:6).  As a result of their departure they were living in turmoil.  When you read the surrounding verses you will discover they were failing in their ways, their wealth, their wellness and their worship.

     It is interesting to note the way in which they left the Lord.  They did not turn around and walk off; no, the Lord said they were “gone away backward.”  They were looking at the Lord while they were leaving the Lord.  They had some religious inclination but they failed to have real intimacy – they were headed in the wrong direction. We typically do not depart overnight.  Leaving the Lord usually is a backward approach. 

     The Lord was willing to forgive them and offered them a great opportunity to change direction.  He said in the same chapter, “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be white as snow” (Isaiah 1:18).  The Lord told them to “Come, now.”  He wanted them to change direction in order for them to be cleansed.  Praise the Lord we can always change direction and find forgiveness in the Lord.