Text: 2 Kings 20:1-21
At some point, during King Hezekiah’s reign, he became very sick. And Yahweh sent Prophet Isaiah to tell him that the king would die. Hezekiah prayed for more time (v.3). The King loved Yahweh and was making great reforms for Yahweh’s worship and for the improvement of God’s people (18:3-8), so perhaps he wanted time to continue the reforms. Also, at this point, Hezekiah had no son (compare 20:6 with 21:1). So perhaps the King was concerned about Yahweh’s covenant with David coming to an end. It’s also likely that Hezekiah was afraid of dying; so, he asked God to heal him.
Understandably, death is always a frightening prospect; but for Christians, it is also exciting. Death, in this earthly life, brings us into eternal life in heaven, with the Lord Who loves us. Apostle Paul felt this push and pull. If he dies, he goes on to be with the Lord, and if he continues in this life, he has more opportunity to serve Christ’s people (Phil.1:21-23). We all should feel this struggle. Do you really love the Lord Jesus? Then you should be eager for the day when you are with Him. But in this life, you should eagerly love and serve Him, and lovingly serve His people.
Meditate on verse 3. What is God teaching you in this verse?
Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, help me walk faithfully and in fellowship with You all the days of my life, to Your eternal Kingdom. Amen.