A Program for Spiritual Prosperity
King Hezekiah successfully led Judah to a renewed interest in the law and dedication to the LORD. Through his leadership, the people destroyed the pillars, images, altars, and high places associated with idolatry, and the priests and Levites returned once more to the worship prescribed in the Law (2 Chr. 31:1-3). He also called on the people to support the priests and Levites financially, which they subsequently did in great abundance (2 Chr. 31:4-10). Hezekiah then ensured that the offerings of the people would be set aside for their intended purpose and distributed to those carrying on the work for the appropriate support of them and their families because of their decision and dedication to serve the LORD (2 Chr. 31:11-19). The inspired record then summarizes both Hezekiah’s actions and motivations: “Thus Hezekiah did throughout all Judah, and he did what was good and right and true before the LORD his God. And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, in the law and in the commandment, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart. So he prospered” (2 Chr. 31:20-21).
This brief paragraph outlines a process both simple and profound. When reordered for our practical benefit, we can see even more of how we too should approach everything in life.
- From our first reflection of ourselves and consideration of the vastness of the universe, we should seek the One who created it (Acts 17:24ff).
- But more than this, our hearts should always be set on serving God fully and completely (Rom. 12:1-2).
- Whatever we do to serve God should center on what He Himself has said and commanded rather than on our personal desires (Rom. 6:16-18).
- In this way, we can move forward with confidence knowing that was we are doing is truly obedience, doing what God Himself has declared good, right, and true (1 Th. 5:21-22).
- When we know what God wants by studying His Word, we should then do it with our full heart, giving our all (1 Pet. 2:2; Mt. 22:37-40).
- Having done this, we can have confidence that we will prosper in life, because we know we have pleased God (2 Tim. 1:12).
Some time after this, Hezekiah lost his way spiritually. He failed to follow the approach that had made him so successful as a king and as a soul. Many people waste years trying to force God to accept their program for pleasing Him, but the only plan that will work is following what God has told us He wants. It is not a matter of selecting just one, two, or even four parts of what pleases God. The whole is what pleases God, and that is what we must give Him.