What is God’s desire for an atheist?

Isaiah 55:7Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously.

Luke 19:10“For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”

Acts 17:27“His purpose was for the nations to seek after God and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him—though he is not far from any one of us.”

Romans 5:6-8When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.

2 Peter 3:9The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.

God’s desire for the atheist is to have a personal relationship with him. God still loves those who do not love him. There is no greater love than that.