January 27, 2024
The prophet Isaiah told the good King Hezekiah that his death was imminent. Therefore, he was to set his house in order before he died. The King pleaded with God to grant him a longer life. God heard his request and added 15 more years to his life because he had found favor in God’s sight.
“…Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die and not live.” Isaiah 38:1.
Few of us will be given advanced notice when our time is up. We all know that our time on earth is limited, but we live as though there is no tomorrow. Most of us do not spend time thinking about the end of life, even though we know it is inevitable. And most people do not set their house in order.
What does it mean to set your house in order? From a worldly perspective, it would mean that we have a will. It may also mean leaving our loved ones something of value, such as cash, investments, or real estate. All that seems perfectly appropriate. But do you think that is all that God has in mind when He says, “Set your house for you will die and not live?” Of course not.
Three things that we should consider
The first thing to remember is that this word is for all of us. Our final days may not be imminent, as in the case of Hezekiah, but they are near. Most of us will never live to 100, and a century is but a twinkling of an eye compared to eternity.
The second thing to consider is that you will leave a legacy. It could be a glorious one, a meaningless one, or even a harmful one. What kind of legacy will you leave? What do you want to be remembered for? What do you want to pass on to your loved ones? What “treasures” are you taking with you when you stand before a Holy God at final judgment?
During the last 15 years of his reign, Hezekiah did some foolish things. For example, when the King of Babylon expressed his well wishes for his recovery, Hezekiah showed him all the wealth and treasures of his Kingdom. Isaiah told Hezekiah that the day was coming when the King of Babylon would take everything of value that he and his fathers had accumulated. Isaiah even said to him that his sons would be made eunuchs and serve the King of Babylon. Deluded Hezekiah thought this was a good word from the prophet Isaiah. During these last 15 years, Hezekiah had a son named Manasseh. He was one of the most wicked kings ever. What did Hezekiah do with the gift of 15 more years?
The third thing to remember is that your life is a gift from God. Like the gift of children (we don’t own them, we steward them), our lives are a gift from God. Your life ultimately belongs to God. God has entrusted you with His gift of life. Your life can be an incredible testimony or one of selfishness and godlessness. You will decide whether to invite God into your life. You will determine if you want to live wholly for God or just go through the motions with your Creator. What you choose here determines the rest of your life and answers whether your legacy is one of hearing the word of God for you.
Your life is an epistle, known and read by all men. What is the message of your life? If you have not set your house in order, that message will be your downfall. It is not too late. Or is it?
