A 15-Year Mistake

Nº 426

The basic purpose of prayer is not to bend God's will to mine, but to mold my will into His. - Timothy Keller

Hezekiah was a great king. Not since the days of David and Solomon had Judah experienced such a spiritual awakening and economic resurgence.

The Assyrians laid siege to the capital city of Jerusalem. Courageously, Hezekiah followed the word of the Lord given through Isaiah and watched God demolish the invading army. God’s gracious hand of mercy was evident during Hezekiah’s reign.

Then Hezekiah became ill. Isaiah visited the king and brought bad news. Set your house in order, for you shall die, you shall not recover. (Isaiah 38:1) Hezekiah turned to the wall, wept bitterly, and prayed for healing. God granted his request and afforded him fifteen additional years.

Those fifteen years did not go well. Hezekiah proudly showed Babylonian visitors the wealth of Jerusalem, inviting the next invasion. When Isaiah confronted him and explained that his foolish action would bring disaster upon future generations, Hezekiah shrugged off the rebuke with, ...will there not be peace and security in my lifetime? (2 Kings 20:19). Most regrettable, a son – Manasseh – was born and began his evil reign at age 12.

Praying for healing is not a bad thing, but it should always be tempered with the trusting commitment, Thy will be done.

Excelsior,

Dan Bolin

Author & President

For more perspective on responding to life’s painful disappointments, sign up for this month's new bonus episodes coming each Thursday in October.