Definition: Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 58:2. It’s a really important and somewhat poetic passage about how people think about and treat God. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that people often don’t truly respect or understand God, and they’re constantly seeking him out, wanting to know his ways. But they’re not really worshipping him or following his rules – they're just looking for things to do that are convenient for them. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Yet they seek me daily…” : This means people constantly look for God, often in a way that’s not respectful or thoughtful. They’re busy and focused on their own needs and desires. “…and delight to know my ways…” : This is the core of the verse. People are interested in understanding God's rules, laws, and how things should be. They want to know what’s right and wrong. It’s a desire for knowledge and understanding. “As a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God…” : This is where it gets a little more profound. Imagine a group of people who tried to live a good life – they followed God’s laws and principles – but then stopped doing it. They didn't fully embrace or follow what God commanded. This suggests a failure to truly worship and obey. “They ask of me the ordinances of justice…” : This means they are seeking things that demonstrate fairness, righteousness, and order in their society. They want laws and procedures that ensure everyone is treated fairly. “…they take delight in approaching to God.” : Finally, this highlights the result of their seeking. They’re enjoying the act of connecting with God – they find pleasure and satisfaction in being near him. In simpler terms: Isaiah 58:2 describes a people who are constantly seeking something, but they aren't truly worshipping or following God’s will. They're focused on their own needs and desires, rather than genuine connection with the divine. It’s a warning about a potential problem in society – people who don’t respect God and don’t seek him properly. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the idea that people can be disconnected from God and lose sight of what’s truly important. It's a reminder to strive for a relationship with God that goes beyond just seeking things – it involves reverence, obedience, and a genuine desire to follow his will. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Give a parallel example from the Bible? Discuss what this verse might be saying about our own lives?