Listen to the audio devotional above, and/or read the written devotional below.
“Have you not heard that I determined it long ago?” 2 Kings 19:25
SUPPLICATION
One of the most difficult paradoxes we face as Christians is the truth of God’s sovereignty and man’s responsibility. Sennacherib, king of Assyria, sent a letter threatening Judah’s destruction. Hezekiah “spread it before the LORD” (2 Ki 19:14) and prayed (2 Ki 19:15-19). If God is sovereign and has determined [the outcome] long ago, why is there a need for our supplications in prayer? Why must we entreat the Lord for desired results? This is a fair question. As Hezekiah was a righteous king (2 Ki 18:3), it foreshadowed our salvation by God’s grace in Christ, who has made us kings and priests for His glory (Rev 5:10). Although we are royalty, the heavenly Father uses every situation and circumstance to humble us, to make us utterly dependent upon His strength and purposes, and to help us submit to Him in all things because we don’t know “the end from the beginning” (Isa 46:10) as He most certainly does. In Hezekiah’s case, the outcome was favorable; and the “angel of the LORD went out and struck down 185,000 in the camp of the Assyrians” (2 Ki 19:35). At other times, for the greater good and glory of Christ’s kingdom, God’s people may have to suffer hardships (Psa 129:2; 2 Tim 2:3), as we had seen in our devotional thought on November 4th. What God is bringing about by our situations and circumstances is a contrite and submissive spirit within us to make you and me, day by day, more like Jesus Christ (Rom 8:28-29). Therefore,
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
Hallelujah! What a Savior!
We pray and ask the Lord, our God,
With simple supplications;
Let us, therefore, make our requests
On behalf of every nation.
Online Bible Audio/Readings Links (ESV)
11/6 Reading Portions: 2 Kings 19; Hebrews 1; Hosea 12; Psalm 135-136
Relevant Links
11/4/22 Devotional, https://www.jonjcardwell.com/p/let-israel-now-say
