Definition: O Lord, by these [things men] live, and in all these [things is] the life of my spirit: so wilt thou recover me, and make me to live.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Isaiah 38:16. It’s a really profound expression of hope and desperation. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying, “Lord, I’m struggling. I’m feeling weak and hopeless, but I still believe in you and your power to help me.” It’s a plea for deliverance and restoration. Let’s unpack the parts: “O Lord…” : This immediately establishes a relationship with God – a request for his favor and guidance. “…by these [things men]…” : This is key. “These things” refers to the people of Judah (the region around Jerusalem at this time). It’s not just about the people themselves, but specifically their struggles and circumstances. “…is] the life of my spirit:” This is where it gets really emotional. "Spirit" here represents God's character, his presence, and his divine power – essentially, who he is . “Life of my spirit” means that his presence and influence are essential to his being and everything that matters to him. It’s saying that without him, he doesn’t exist or feel whole. “…so wilt thou recover me, and make me to live?” : This is the core of the plea. “Recover me” means to restore him – to bring him back to a state of wholeness and vitality. "Make me to live" means to grant him the ability to continue being alive and experiencing life, to be free from suffering or despair. Overall Meaning & Context: Isaiah 38:16 is a moment of intense crisis for King Hezekiah in Judah. The people are facing a devastating threat – Assyrian soldiers are preparing to attack Jerusalem. This verse captures the profound anxiety and hope of a leader who knows his nation is vulnerable. It's a testament to the belief that God’s presence is always with us, even in times of great trouble. It’s about: Dependence on God: The verse emphasizes that our lives are fundamentally dependent on God's power and presence. Hope and Resilience: It highlights a powerful hope – the belief that God can intervene to save his people. Divine Protection: It speaks of God protecting us from danger and restoring us to wholeness. In short, it’s a heartfelt expression of faith and a plea for deliverance in the face of overwhelming adversity. --- Would you like me to: Explain this verse further with a metaphor? Discuss its significance within the larger context of the Old Testament prophecy?