The Lord has anointed me… to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God. Isaiah 61:1-2 (NIV) Our whole lives are lived in between times. We look back to the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. And we look forward to His second coming. That means...
The Lord has anointed me… to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God. Isaiah 61:1-2 (NIV) Our whole lives are lived in between times. We look back to the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. And we look forward to His second coming. That means...
Hezekiah received a visit from the prophet Isaiah, who told him, “Thus says the Lord, set your house in order for you will die, you will not recover.” In response, Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the Lord. God answered his prayer, and Hezekiah recovered, living for another 15 years. This story teaches us a vital principle: God is sovereign, but His sovereignty includes the prayers of His people. Therefore, we must seek God’s face in prayer and live with a clear conscience.
After Hezekiah’s prayer, God promised to give him 15 more years and to deliver the city from the enemy. Isaiah instructed Hezekiah to apply a poultice of figs to his boil to recover. This illustrates an important principle: God normally works through means, but there are some things only God can do.
For instance, in today’s context of the global virus, we should pray and use the means available—such as washing hands, staying at home, and practicing social distancing—to restrain its spread. Martin Luther emphasised this during the plague in 1527, highlighting the responsibility to use God’s provided means while also trusting in His will.
The second part of the principle is to thank God when He makes these means effective. Although Hezekiah used a poultice, it was ultimately God who healed him. We must remember to give God the glory for success, whether it’s through medicine, doctors, or any other means.
