Beyond our Lifetime

“The word of YHWH you have spoken is good,” Hezekiah replied. For he thought, “Will there not be peace and security in my lifetime?” – 2 Kings 20:19

Hezekiah, king of Judah, sinned foolishly when he pridefully allowed Babylonian representatives to see all of Judah’s treasures. He also revealed a self-centered heart when, in response to the prophet Isaiah's declaration of future judgment, he stated that the word of YHWH through the prophet was “good” as long as there would be peace and security in his own lifetime.

Hezekiah was only concerned with what might personally affect his reign, but good leaders must also consider how succeeding generations (and leaders) will be affected. In order for any ministry to continue growing, the next generation must always be considered in our plans. It is selfish to do otherwise.

Short-sighted decisions by selfish leaders can cripple a ministry indefinitely. We may not have all the facts, but even so, we must always consider the long-term effects of the decisions we make. God's work will most likely extend beyond our lifetime. My we steward well our part in it.

In each action we must look beyond the action at our past, present, and future state, and at others whom it affects, and see the relations of all those things. And then we shall be very cautious. – Blaise Pascal