If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all.’”10 Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, 11 “Ask the Lord your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights.” Isaiah 7:9
The Lord had made a promise to Ahaz through the prophet Isaiah that Israel would not be overtaken by two warring kings. He was told to stand firm in his faith in this promise. But then God asked a strange thing of Ahaz; he was to ask for a sign that God he would do what He promised. Ahaz refused! Normally asking God to prove Himself would be due to lack of faith, but in this instance, God Himself is desiring to give a sign to assure His people of His faithfulness.
I’m not sure I fully understand what is happening here without some research, but I believe God is testing Ahaz’s commitment and faith, but Ahaz refused. Then God gave him a sign which would have been a sign of deliverance but because of Ahaz’s failure to obey, it became a sign of defeat.
Once again, we see that obedience to God does not always follow the standard practice. God looks on the heart not just the actions, and judges man’s motives. Apparently, Ahaz had doubt or pride that prevented him from humbling himself and asking for a sign. Maybe to him that appeared like weakness. Regardless, he failed to obey, and the result was defeat.
Lord, when I hear Your voice speaking directly to me, help me to listen with a humble, surrendered heart of obedience. Even when I don’t fully understand your command, help me to stand firm on my faith in You. Give me divine wisdom and discernment to hear your voice and not doubt but obey in faith that You will bless my obedience.
Journey with Joyce 