Isaiah Chapter 38. Is prayer really that important?
Once again, King Hezekiah is in anguish, not because of his enemies attacking him, but because his physical health is deteriorating. God declares his death with no hope of recovery.
King Hezekiah responds like he did when Assyria was mocking their City and ready to attack. King Hezekiah was broken before God and in tears as he pleaded with the Lord. Because of his brokenness, God heard his prayer and gave him 15 more years to live. As king Hezekiah reflected, he realized the anguish he suffered was for his own benefit.
1) It taught him humility again.
2) It reminded him to rely on the Lord again.
3) It reminded him to take his needs to God In Prayer.
Let us not quickly forget that when we are going through tough times, God is wanting to use our experience for his glory and for our benefit. He's looking for us to be broken before him and to pray. Yes, Pray!!
When I first took on the position of Executive Director of Edinboro Camp, it was more than overwhelming. During these times, I learned one huge lesson: be a better communicator with the staff. I received criticism more than once regarding this issue. Oftentimes not with a pleasant heart. It hurts having weaknesses revealed.
Secondly, it kept me humble and kept me in total reliance upon the Lord because I knew I couldn't run this Camp without him.
What are you going through right now? What is God trying to teach you for your benefit, and for his glory? Escaping your anguish is not productive if you don't learn anything from it.
Have a Son-filled day!