If Only You Had Paid Attention

Isaiah 48:17-18

Published on: July 8, 2025

Last updated on: July 8, 2025

This is what the LORD says—
your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel:
“I am the LORD your God,
who teaches you what is best for you,
who directs you in the way you should go.
If only you had paid attention to my commands,
your peace would have been like a river,
your well-being like the waves of the sea.
Isaiah 48:17-18 (NIV)

This was written to unfaithful Israel, who had failed to follow the Lord’s instruction and suffered the consequences. But it seems just as applicable to me today as to ancient Israel.

The Lord teaches me what is best for me. The inspired Scripture contains what I need to grow in my faith and to be the man God has called me to be (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

But what do I do with the Scripture? Do I invest the time to learn it and allow its words to sink deep within? Have I hidden its words in my heart (Ps. 119:11)?

The Holy Spirit will direct me in the way that I should go. If I will listen and follow him. But do I follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, listening to his voice of direction and correction?

If I do, if I invest the time to learn and obey God’s word, and if I follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, then I will have peace like a river. Not the peace that this world can offer (John 14:27), but the peace of God that surpasses understanding (Phil. 4:7), a peace that will guard my heart and mind.

I may not prosper in a worldly sense. But if I pay attention to God’s voice, my well-being will be like the waves of the sea, endlessly rolling. The best life I can possibly lead is one that is attuned to the Lord and obedient to him. It does not get any better than that.

What Does God Require? – Micah 6:8

What does God require of me? Salvation is by faith, not by works. But God does expect me to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.

Following the Good Shepherd – John 10:3-4

Jesus is the good shepherd. His sheep are those who recognize his voice and follow his leading. Who is it that you are following?

Loving God Means Keeping His Commands – 1 John 5:3

Can you love God without obedience to him? John pretty clearly responds to that question saying that obedience to God is love for him. I cannot rightly claim to love God and blatantly disregard his instruction for my life.

Meditate on the Bible Day and Night – Joshua 1:7-8

Meditate on God’s word day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.

Additional Related Posts

Bible Study Isaiah Obedience

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Ed Jarrett

Just an old clay jar that God continues to see fit to use in his kingdom's work. I am retired, married with 2 children, and 4 grandchildren. I have followed Jesus for many years. And I love to share what He has given me from His word.

A Note to Readers

The views expressed here are solely mine and do not necessarily reflect those of any other person, group, or organization. While I believe they reflect the teachings of the Bible, I am a fallible human and subject to misunderstanding. Please feel free to leave any comments or questions about this post in the comments section below. I am always interested in your feedback.