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There are times in my spiritual walk when I simply want to take a break. Although I know God is calling me forward, I would rather just check out and do my own thing. It’s natural, easy, and comfortable. In a mysterious way the human mind is incapable of understanding, God’s sovereignty intertwines with our free will. There are many things He could do for us that He does not. Similarly, there are many things we can’t do that we try to control. This push-and-pull relationship is what ultimately produces trust. It was no different with Hezekiah.
As a king and leader, once Hezekiah heard of the coming war, he had a responsibility to direct his people. This was his human responsibility.
After Hezekiah had fulfilled his responsibilities, the actual victory was up to the Lord. He encouraged his people with this fact.
“Be strong and courageous, do not fear or be dismayed because of the king of Assyria nor because of all the horde that is with him; for the one with us is greater than the one with him.”
2 Chronicles 32:7 NASB
This is such a powerful example for us. First, do we actually follow through with our responsibility in a given situation? The temptation, like I said earlier, is to check out and just carelessly hope for the best. Second, do we let God work in the aspects that are out of our control? Once we have stepped out in obedience, do we really trust Him for the end results?
I think we must be careful not to neglect our God-given responsibilities, but also not strive for control over aspects only the Lord can deliver. There is such a peace that comes from knowing we have done all we can and are trusting completely in the Lord’s timing. Once we have followed through with our obedience, we will have confidence to proclaim, as Hezekiah did, “the one with us is greater than the one with him.”