Isaiah 38:9–10: “This is the writing of Hezekiah king of Judah, when he had been sick and had recovered from his sickness: I said, / ‘In the prime of my life / I shall go to the gates of Sheol; / I am deprived of the remainder of my years.'”

September 1st, 2024 by Pastor Ed in devotional

King Hezekiah wrote of his feelings of helplessness at facing death. When we do the math based on 2 Kings 18:2, we see that he lived to be 54 years old and he reigned 29 years; therefore, he got sick and was told he was dying, at the early age of about 39. For most unbelievers the subject of death is a terrifying possibility that they try not to face, even though everything around us reminds us daily of the impermanence of life here on planet earth. How we all need to be prepared for death, having already settled the issue of eternity long before death visits us.

There is an old Persian legend that tells of a merchant in Baghdad who sent his servant to the market to run an errand. Before long the servant came back, white and trembling, and, in great agitation, said to his master, “In the market place I was jostled by a woman in the crowd, and when I turned around I saw it was death that jostled me. She looked at me and made a threatening gesture. Master, I am terrified. Please lend me your fastest horse, for I must hasten away to avoid her. I will ride to Samaria and there I will hide, and death will not find me.” The merchant granted his request and the servant galloped away in great haste. Later the merchant went to the market place and saw death standing in the crowd. He went over to her and asked, “Why did you frighten my servant this morning? Why did you make a threatening gesture?” “That was not a threatening gesture,” death said, “frankly, it was I who was startled. I was astonished to see him in Baghdad, for I have an appointment with him tonight in Samaria.” This may seem like a depressing thing to talk about, but the truth is that no one has a guarantee that they have another day beyond this one; therefore, we need to see this day as precious and live it wisely, with eternity in view.

“LORD, we are thankful that You have promised eternal life with You to all who would call on Your name. Help us to live this day well for You and Your Kingdom.”