Today’s Key Scripture

“I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears.”

— Isaiah 38:5

Following the death of King Ahaz, his son Hezekiah ascended the throne in Jerusalem. The new monarch abolished the places of idol worship and returned the children of Israel to the worship of Jehovah. Also, for the first time since the kingdom had been split under Rehoboam, son of Solomon, the remnants of the tribes of Israel were encouraged to renew the Passover feast and pilgrimage.

As the godly King Hezekiah reached the end of his life, Isaiah 38 tells an amazing account of God’s plans being changed through prayer:

In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, Thus saith the Lord, Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die, and not live. Then Hezekiah turned his face toward the wall, and prayed unto the Lord… Then came the word of the Lord to Isaiah, saying, Go, and say to Hezekiah, Thus saith the Lord, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will add unto thy days fifteen years. (Isaiah 38:1-5, kjv)

King Hezekiah’s prayer was answered. His life was extended.

And prayer has power to change things in your life too.

 

A Prayer for Today

God of all mercy, I ask You today for Your mercy and forgiveness to surround me today and all the days of my life. I thank You for the power of prayer. May I live my life so in tune with You that Your guidance comes through clearly to my heart. Help me to follow Your guidance, even as I seek to follow Your path of righteousness. Help me to also walk in peace and joy, reflecting Your love to others everywhere I go. Help me speak hope, health, and peace to whomever I meet. I pray all this in the name above all names, Jesus, amen.

 

*All Scripture references are NKJV unless otherwise noted.