How can Isaiah 38:21 inspire us to seek God's guidance in illness? Setting the Scene—A King on His Sickbed – Isaiah 38 recounts King Hezekiah’s life-threatening illness. – God sent the prophet to announce his impending death, yet Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed (Isaiah 38:2–5). – Verse 21 records the practical remedy God prescribed through Isaiah: “Now Isaiah had said, ‘Prepare a lump of pressed figs and apply it to the boil, and he will recover.’” Key Truths Packed into One Verse • God is personally involved in physical healing. • He directs both prayer and practical treatment. • Obedience to God’s specific instruction is essential to recovery. What This Means for Us When Illness Strikes 1. Look first to the Lord – Hezekiah’s instinct was prayer, not panic (Psalm 121:1-2). – James 5:14-15 reinforces the pattern: “Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him…”. 2. Welcome God-given remedies – The “lump of pressed figs” was simple medicine, yet God ordained it. – Modern equivalents—doctors, treatments, nutrition—are gifts to be received with gratitude (1 Timothy 4:4). 3. Combine faith with action – Hezekiah prayed and then applied the poultice. – Faith expresses itself in obedient steps (James 2:17). 4. Expect God’s sovereignty to override prognosis – Verse 5: “I will add fifteen years to your life.” – Psalm 103:2-3 celebrates the Lord “who heals all your diseases.” 5. Beware of neglecting God’s counsel – Contrast King Asa, who “even in his disease he did not seek the LORD, but only the physicians” (2 Chronicles 16:12). Practical Ways to Seek God’s Guidance in Illness – Begin each medical decision with Scripture and prayer. – Invite mature believers to stand with you, anoint, and intercede. – Ask God to show how to steward your body—rest, nutrition, treatment. – Keep a journal of verses, providences, and progress to remember His faithfulness. A Closing Word of Hope Isaiah 38:21 reminds us that the God who sees every symptom also directs every remedy. In sickness, we look to Him first, follow His leading faithfully, and rest in His power to heal in His perfect way and time. |
    |