SEPTEMBER 21, Isaiah 38:1-5

What is the average lifespan of a Singaporean? For a man, it is about 80 years, and for a woman, about 85 years. Many do a lot to try to lengthen their lives: pop vitamins, exercise, eat right, have a healthy work-life balance.

How old do you think King Hezekiah was when he was very ill? He was relatively young, at only 39 years old. That would be less than half of the average life expectancy of a Singaporean today! As king, he could do almost anything within his earthly power to improve his health and prolong his life. However, when he knew his life was near its end, he did not seek doctors or magicians; he prayed unto the Lord, crying his heart out to God. He believed God to be a merciful and kind Master.

Hezekiah wept as he prayed to the Lord. God was moved and granted him 15 more years. God also graciously added another blessing – that He will defend Judah from the king of Assyria.

To confirm His promise, God moved the shadow of the sundial of Ahaz (Hezekiah’s father) ten degrees backward (Isaiah 38:8), as a sign that He had extended Hezekiah’s days.

Imagine your father is about the age of Hezekiah, and has suddenly been diagnosed with an incurable disease. The doctors are not hopeful; 3 months is all they give him to live. What do you do? What fears will occupy your mind? What will happen to the family without your father?

Dear child, do you believe in the power of prayer? God’s word tells us that “[the] effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 5:16). Dear child, go humbly to the Giver of life that we may find help in time of need.

Thought: Do you believe in the power of prayer?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I confess that at times, I lack faith. Grant me the faith to believe, to be able to know that in Your hands lie my future, and that of my family. Therefore, I pray my family and I will continue to keep close to You. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.