From Problems to Praise
Isaiah 38:9–20
If you could create the perfect life, what would it look like? What would you change? Would it involve a new career, a different location, or a new home? Many would want to improve their current health or financial situation.
Even something as trivial as your favorite football team going undefeated could be on your list of perfect things. No matter what you consider perfect, none of us would intentionally choose a life filled with problems, pain and adversity. Still, all of these things and more are a constant reality for each of us.
When things go our way, we might feel tempted to forget to thank God and even neglect our prayer life or spiritual disciplines. You will learn the hard way that the more you neglect your private times with God, the less you’ll trust Him in everyday life.
That is tragic and can lead to weak faith or, even worse, a shallow testimony of God’s goodness. Everyone faces problems. The question is, will you praise Him during your difficulties when life feels far from perfect?
When despondent, look to God. (9–14)
Hezekiah was down in the dumps! The thought of what was coming next filled him with deep sadness and depression. It’s overwhelming to feel hopeless. In times like these, we must be vigilant in guarding both our hearts and minds. Hezekiah saw himself as a young man with much life left to live, and now he is facing Sheol. Note that this use of Sheol is not what some refer to as hell.
In this context, it refers to the grave or a place of death. Have you or someone you love faced death? It is an incredibly humbling experience and one that God can use to draw us closer to Him.
Acknowledge how God responds out of His love. (15–17)
There is no pain a Christian experiences that goes unseen or uncared for by God. Every painful moment in your life has a purpose. You may never fully understand that purpose, but God’s trustworthiness remains. Praising and worshipping God during difficult times does not guarantee that the hardship will disappear, but it does help you gain the right perspective and strengthen your faith and reliance on God. The severity of your situation does not reflect God’s love for you. Hezekiah recognizes the incredible love of the Father and His grace shown in the forgiveness of sins.
Express your thanks to God publicly. (18–20)
The people we often respect and listen to the most have faced the most challenging situations. Hezekiah directs us to the only One worthy of worship and praise. He called on everyone to join him in thanking God.
Trials and hardships can either make you bitter or better, and only you can decide how to respond. Hezekiah understood that no matter his circumstances, God can always be thanked.
We cannot create a perfect life for ourselves, but we can have the assurance from our perfect and loving Heavenly Father who cares for us. Only God can take you from struggles to praise. Do not become complacent in your prayers to Him. Keep praising Him no matter what. He will see you through.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
