There are moments in life when everything seems to be going well, until suddenly we are hit with bad news. This could be an unexpected health diagnosis, the loss of a job, a betrayal by someone close to us or the tragic passing of a loved one. In these moments, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and helpless. Bad news can shake us to our core. However, the way we respond during these difficult times can make all the difference.
In the Bible, we find an example that illustrates how to react in such situations. In Isaiah 37, King Hezekiah receives a letter from the king of Syria threatening to invade Jerusalem. In response, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth (symbolising anguish, mourning and humility) and went to the house of the Lord.
This reaction brought about great deliverance for Jerusalem, as God sent an angel who destroyed the enemy army – which numbered over 200,000 soldiers. Hezekiah’s reaction prompts us to reflect on our own responses to bad news. While it’s natural to feel negative emotions in such moments, it is crucial that we lean on our faith and put it into action.
Hezekiah’s response wasn’t impulsive; it stemmed from a deep relationship with God. This is further demonstrated later, when he received news that he would die from an illness. Instead of accepting this fate, the king cried out to God, saying, “O Lord, I pray, how I have walked before You in truth and with a loyal heart, and have done what is good in Your sight.” (Isaiah 38:3)
When dealing with bad news, crises and uncertainty, our relationship with God is vital. Hezekiah’s dependence on God and refusal to accept that fate provoked a response from the Almighty.
This teaches us that the way we handle negative news reflects the state of our faith. Often, when we find ourselves in the midst of a “hurricane”, we may feel despair, complain or cry. However, Hezekiah showed us the only positive action he could (and should) take: he cried out to God. By doing so, he found peace in surrendering the situation to the Almighty, who can do what no one else can.
No one is immune to bad news, as we live in a troubled world and are susceptible to many challenges and injustices. However, this does not mean that God has forgotten us. For Him to deliver us, He only needs to see our faith – not our despair, emotions or tears.
So, when you find yourself surrounded by bad news and difficulties, present your situation before God. Instead of complaining, cry out to Him. In doing so, you will receive your answer and He will be glorified.
The most important thing to remember is that you’re not alone. Every day, at the Universal Church, we hold services designed to offer spiritual support and practical guidance on how to overcome life’s problems through faith. Each service focuses on a different area of life to address your specific needs. Click here for our timetable and here for the address of your nearest branch.
If you need urgent support, you don’t have to wait. Call our 24-hour helpline right now, where our spiritual advisers will be ready to listen and provide spiritual assistance. Call 020 7686 6000 or send a WhatsApp message to 020 7686 6010.
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