Before and While

"And it shall come to pass that before they call, I will answer, and while they are yet speaking, I will hear." Isaiah 65:24

God is holy and blesses those who humble themselves before Him with repentant hearts and reverently respond to His Word, His greatness. He hears our pleas before we cry out to Him. David contritely acknowledged his sin against God (and Bathsheba and her husband). While saying he would confess his sin unto the Lord, God forgave David (Ps 32:5). The prodigal's father ran to his humbled and penitent son, embraced and forgave him before he could ask for forgiveness for his foolish actions (Luke 15:18–24). While Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises to God in prison, God rescued them before they asked for help (Acts 16:25–26). Our Father knows our needs before we call out to Him; He hears and will answer.

"I will bless those who have humble and contrite hearts, who tremble at My word." Isaiah 66:2b NLT

The apostle Paul told his listeners he came to them not as an expert in the Law (which he was), speech, or the world's wisdom but as timid and weak in the power of God and His wisdom. He deliberately spoke plainly, putting aside everything except the message of Jesus Christ and His crucifixion (2 Cor 2:1–5). Paul humbly acknowledged his limitations, depending on God's wisdom, and God blessed his ministry. King David and the wayward son received undeserved grace, mercy, and forgiveness.

God blesses those who revere His holiness and come before Him with the right heart. His peace that follows sincere confessions of guilt proves He mercifully and graciously forgives sinners' offenses.