How can we apply Hezekiah's approach to seeking signs in our own lives? Setting the scene 2 Kings 20:8: “Hezekiah asked Isaiah, ‘What will be the sign that the LORD will heal me and that I will go up to the house of the LORD on the third day?’” Hezekiah had just heard the prophet’s promise of healing. Rather than doubting, he sought confirmation so he could prepare his heart to worship. Scripture presents the story as historical fact, and the Lord’s response—turning back the shadow—underscores His sovereign power over time itself. Hezekiah’s request: what we learn • He believed the prophetic word but desired practical assurance to strengthen obedience. • He asked with humility, not presumption, leaving the form of the sign to God (v. 10). • His goal was worship (“…that I will go up to the house of the LORD”). The sign was a means, not an end. Principles for seeking God’s confirmation today 1. Start with clearly revealed Scripture. – Psalm 119:105 “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” If the Bible already addresses the decision, no additional sign is needed. 2. Align motives with worship. – Colossians 3:17 calls us to do everything “in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Like Hezekiah, aim for God’s glory, not personal curiosity. 3. Ask humbly, not demandingly. – James 4:6 “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” 4. Be open to God’s chosen method. – Isaiah did the asking: “Shall the shadow go forward ten steps, or back ten steps?” (2 Kings 20:9). We present the need; the Lord decides the sign. 5. Expect God’s peace to accompany His answer. – Philippians 4:6-7 promises a guarding peace when we present requests “with thanksgiving.” Healthy boundaries in asking for signs • Do not test God from unbelief (Deuteronomy 6:16; Matthew 4:7). • Avoid treating signs as fortune-telling. Gideon’s fleece (Judges 6:36-40) was graciously answered, yet later revelation urges faith over repeated proofs (John 20:29). • Remember Christ’s warning: “An evil and adulterous generation demands a sign” (Matthew 16:4). The resurrection is the ultimate confirmation already given (Romans 1:4). Walking by faith after the sign Hezekiah received the sign, took the poultice, and recovered (2 Kings 20:11-13). Notice what followed: – Gratitude for answered prayer (Isaiah 38:9-20). – Stewardship of extended years—though he stumbled with pride, his record reminds us to use God’s confirmations for lifelong obedience, not momentary relief. – Public testimony: the miracle became a witness to surrounding nations (2 Chronicles 32:23). Key takeaways to live out this week • Before asking for a sign, search the Word; many answers are already clear. • If confirmation seems necessary, ask with a heart set on worship and submission. • Trust God’s chosen form of assurance—whether a timely Scripture, a providential circumstance, or an inner peace grounded in the Spirit. • Once God confirms, move forward confidently, glorifying Him and sharing the story so others see His faithfulness. |
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