What do you do when you’re caught between a rock and a hard place? The news they received was not good. We don’t tear our clothes and wear sackcloth much these days. Yet, Hezekiah also turned to the Lord and sought help. This is a great example for us, too. Chapter 37 in Isaiah is identical to the one found in 2 Kings 19. We are seeing a glimpse of history amidst the prophecy oracles. Isaiah played a role during King Hezekiah’s near melt down, and that is what we see in today’s passage. But it was God who was the ultimate rescuer.
In our last reading we heard how King Hezekiah’s officials were distraught by the words of the Assyrians. They didn’t like how God’s name was being misused and manipulated. We may have experienced similar attacks for our own faith from unbelievers who don’t understand the merciful God who extends grace and love to those who love him. Have you ever experienced such a thing?
Here we see how Hezekiah turned to the faithful, God-fearing prophet, Isaiah. Hezekiah knew that turning to such counsel was the right choice. It is always a good idea to turn to a trusted Christ-follower when you are going through a tough spot or simply questioning God for what is happening in your life. Other kings may have looked to the might of allies, but Hezekiah turned to God.
Immediately, reassurance came from God, “Do not be disturbed by this blasphemous speech against me from the Assyrian king’s messengers. Listen! I myself will move against him, and the king will receive a message that he is needed at home. So he will return to his land, where I will have him killed with a sword.” This will be great news to hear. God was aware of what had transpired. The Assyrian king would not have the final word.
Yet, we do see another attempt from the Assyrian king to try and scare Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem. Despite having had the assurance from God through Isaiah, Hezekiah needed more time with God. We hear he went up to the temple and poured out his heart to God. When is the last time you poured your heart out to God, pleading for direction, protection, or for lifting of some other burden weighing heavy on your heart? Hezekiah was bold in his asking. “Bend down, O Lord, and listen! Open your eyes, O Lord, and see!” I’m not sure I’ve ever been that bold!
I feel like King Hezekiah’s next words could also be our prayer for deliverance from this horrible pandemic we find ourselves living through. While this virus is not human, it has taken control of the world in many ways. “Now, O Lord our God, rescue us from his power; then all the kingdoms of the earth will know that you alone, O Lord, are God.” When we see miracles happen around us, we need to be sure to recognize whose hand has been at work. Do we always recognize God as the deliverer?
Take some time today to quietly reflect on your level of trust in your Heavenly Father. Are you letting worry and doubt permeate your thoughts? What struggles do you need to lay before the Lord?
Let’s pray … Lord, forgive me for my distracted heart. I know you have something mighty for me to do, but I’m feeling unsure. It seems that for every step forward, I get pushed back two or more. I want to be walking in your will and pursuing all that you have for me. Help me to let go of worry over things I cannot change. Please bring an end to all the suffering in the world. Help me to bathe in your peace today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
