I just want to let you know from the start, that I may be taking this Scripture a bit out of context. However, as I was reading it during my quiet time this morning, I found it rather intriguing. In 2 Kings 19, Hezekiah received a letter stating that the Israelites would be defeated in battle. Many nations fell to the hands of Assyria, so it was assumed that Israel would receive the same fate. Hezekiah replied by seeking God and spreading the letter out before Him. He took the matter so seriously, not only did he bring himself into the presence of the Lord, but the letter as well. Before I preach, I sometimes spread my outline and notes before God and say, “Lord, I need you to breathe on these words. I submit this message to you.” It’s my way of giving full and final surrender of the message to God. Even though we try to make our worship gatherings creative and engaging, I want to make sure that our attenders hear from God. I take those moments so seriously that not only do I bring myself before the presence of God, but the information as well. During those times, I’m sensitive to anything I feel God would have me to add, subtract, or change. It’s all about Him!
