SOAP: the poetry of suffering

S - When King Hezekiah was well again, he wrote this poem:

...But what could I say?
For he himself sent this sickness.
Now I will walk humbly throughout my years
because of this anguish I have felt.
Lord, your discipline is good,
for it leads to life and health.
You restore my health
and allow me to live!
Yes, this anguish was good for me,
for you have rescued me from death
and forgiven all my sins...
Think of it—the Lord is ready to heal me!
— Isaiah 38: 9, 15-17, 20

O - Through Hezekiah's sickness he was saved from death. As he pressed in to God, his suffering lead him out of death into life and healing. God was gracious to move the sundial backwards to seal his promise of healing and life during Hezekiah's suffering. There is beauty in the letdown. There is freedom in the takedown. There is life in the hope of sharing suffering.

A - This takedown is good. As Hezekiah learned from his suffering, God has brought me away from the pit of busyness, need, and man's praise. God has thrown me into the wilderness of his loving hand. My tent is blown away. What once seemed so strong and sure is exposed as simply a temporary and fleeting residence. Suddenly, my "life" is over! And, to think — God is ready to heal me.

P - Lord, thank you for helping me turn into a wall. I want to do what pleases you, and want to be single-minded in my obedience. I am grateful for your hemming in, your pruning, and your healing hand. I can say, "My God blessed!" Help me break all the way... I am afraid of this... yet there is freedom to be found.