Bible Chapter: Isaiah 37 & 38

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    Hezekiah was dealing with a threat from an enemy.  He did the right thing by going to God in prayer.  He depended on God and received His direction.  This is always a good thing to do, go to God and ask for His help and guidance.  Then it is important to actually do what you believe God said.  God spoke to Hezekiah.  They were facing the attacks of the Assyrian king who thought he was more powerful than God. That never works.  God promised victory to His people.
    Hezekiah was sick and Isaiah said that he would die.  The king prayed for healing and God gave him fifteen more years of life.  God hears the prayers of His people.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    We see here one of the most amazing passages in the Bible.
Isaiah 38:8 NKJV
8 Behold, I will bring the shadow on the sundial, which has gone down with the sun on the sundial of Ahaz, ten degrees backward." So the sun returned ten degrees on the dial by which it had gone down.
    When God was showing His power and promise, He actually made the sun go backwards ten degrees.  Only God can do that. This is a powerful word of encouragement for those who believe in and trust God.  When we need what we can only call a miracle, it is never too hard for God.  That needs to be an constant word of encouragement to me.

3.  How can I help someone?
    Hezekiah was facing some formidable opposition.  God gave him the assurance that He would take care of the situation.  Learn from that.  Know that God is not puzzled by the situations that we face.  He is there for each one.  One key point from this story: Hezekiah was living in obedience to God.  Often people live any way they want and then expect God to come through for them and deliver them.  The first issue of life must be that we are living in obedience to God. He is not obligated to get us out of the messes we are in because of sinful lifestyles. It is a lie of the enemy to make us think that we can do anything we want and God should be there to rescue us from our stubbornness.