Isaiah 38:17-20
“Surely it was for my benefit that I suffered such anguish. In your love you kept me from the pit of destruction; you have put all my sins behind your back. For the grave cannot praise you, death cannot sing your praise; those who go down to the pit cannot hope for your faithfulness. The living, the living—they praise you, as I am doing today; parents tell their children about your faithfulness. The Lord will save me, and we will sing with stringed instruments all the days of our lives in the temple of the Lord.” Isaiah 38:17-20 NIV
Here is the case of a man who, as far as mortal help was concerned, was a dead man, and yet prayer prevailed for his recovery, and the lengthening of his life. He records his experience for the glory of God, for his own refreshment, and for our encouragement. Suffering and sickness occur on a regular basis with people all over the entire world. The range of sickness that occurs is extremely wide. Some sickness are of a minor, temporary sort, while others are life-threatening and bring about death. It is because of God’s great patience and mercy that we have not died in sin. He wishes to deliver and rescue everyone from a horrible eternity spent in Hell. Unbelievers have been given another day to surrender their lives to God and have their sins forgiven. Believers have been given another day to share the gospel message with someone who does not know the Lord. There are no second chances after death. Are you living each day as if it is your last? Are you spending each day with your family, friends, and coworkers as if it is their last? It is easy to get caught up in the cares of this world, forgetting the reality of Hell and the many who will die separated from God for eternity. Christians must remain vigilant and ready to share the reason for the hope that lies within them. Hezekiah had followed God faithfully for a time, but then started to walk away from Him. Isaiah comes to him telling him that he will soon die and must get his life in order. After asking for some more time to live, God grants it. Hezekiah realized that the sickness was for his benefit. There may be times when a sickness is a wakeup call to a person. One can be facing death in the face and has to make a choice as to whom he will serve, self or God. God has mercy on people and wants everyone to be saved. He may use disasters or sickness to get one’s attention. This is especially true for those who already believe in Him and have been following Him. God can strike a person to get him to get his life in order. As a believer, your life should be focused on living for God in every area of your life. This means you will strive to flee sin and be His witness in this world. Take a look at your life and see how you are doing at truly following God. Does your life show one who loves God from the heart, or one who loves God only in words? God is giving you a chance today to get your house in order. You may or may not have tomorrow, but you do have today. Live for God while you can and receive the gift of eternal life that Jesus promised!!!
Father thank You for this day and the breath of life that is found in intimacy with You and Your Word. Lord let your abundant blessings flow from heaven over my friend and family today. Lord we thank You for another day, a second chance, and another opportunity to share Your Word, to pour out Your forgiveness, and to reach the lost. Lord stir our hearts for what moves Yours and give us compassion to seek out the lost. Lord use my friend and I to boldly proclaim the hope and assurance we have in You to all today. Daddy we love You amen. Be a blessing. Love ya !
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