amazed

After everything I’ve done for you…!

Ouch! Those stinging words insinuate injustice, don’t they? Unfair treatment.

Reminds us of Hezekiah’s situation: “After these acts of faithfulness Sennacherib king of Assyria came and invaded Judah and besieged the fortified cities and thought to break into them for himself.” ¹

What gives? If the words “faithful” and “devoted” describe anyone, it’s Hezekiah. He trusted in the Lord more than any of the kings before or after him.² So why is this happening? What kind of reward is this!?

If we’re honest, we’ve said it, too: “After all this faithfulness to You, Lord…! Why aren’t things going better than this?”

We’re tempted to label God unfair. But wait. Consider what else may be going on behind the scenes:

1. We’re in a raging battle. “After these acts of faithfulness” is nothing more than a flashing red light alerting the enemy to our position. We’re a threat! So he unloads both barrels on us. True, our side ultimately wins, but right now the battle is fierce.
2. The Refiner is at work. “After these acts of faithfulness,” cues the Master Craftsman to intensify the flame. Why? Higher temps yield even greater purity and strength.
3. A great deliverance is in store. “After these acts of faithfulness” plus 185,000 Assyrians equals a compelling invitation for God to showcase His power and strength.
4. The wisdom of God’s master plan will take our breath away. Someday. For now, though, we only see in a mirror dimly. “After these acts of faithfulness,” in spite of limited visibility, is one way we can actively contribute to God’s eternal glory.

Press on in your acts of faithfulness,
Paul