King Hezekiah Prays for Deliverance
Starting with Isaiah 36, this otherwise prophetic book switches to a narrative for four chapters, talking about King Hezekiah. The first one is about the source of the king’s confidence.
King Hezekiah, a direct descendant of King David, rules the nation of Judah from the city of Jerusalem. Things aren’t going well for him or the nation.
The king of Assyria has set out to conquer Judah and has Jerusalem under siege. Vastly outnumbered, Judah possesses limited resources and holds no reasonable hope for victory. From a human perspective, they’re in a hopeless situation with no expectation of winning.
Outside the city wall, the Assyrian field commander calls out to King Hezekiah—and everyone in the city who can hear. He mocks the king for his faith in God. “What’s the basis for your confidence?” he shouts.
The field commander scornfully asks if Hezekiah is depending on God to save him, the city, and his nation. “Given your situation, your words are an empty boast.”
Then he gives some sources of assurance that seem wise from a human perspective, such as the strategy of military advisors or a powerful ally—namely Egypt.
King Hezekiah is relying on God, but he commands his people to not react to their enemy’s taunts.
Then the field commander appeals to the people. “Don’t listen to your king. Your God can’t save you.” The commander promises if they surrender, he will relocate them to a new land with plenty to eat and drink.
King Hezekiah freaks out. He goes into the temple and seeks God, begging him to save them from the overwhelming forces of their enemy. He prays for deliverance.
God comes through. He sends an angel who wipes out the Assyrian army. And later the king of Assyria is assassinated.
God miraculously rescues his people from their enemy. And they didn’t need to do a single thing except seek him.
Though we might not be in a city under siege and facing death, God can come through for us during our dark times, whatever they may be, just as he did for Hezekiah and the people in Jerusalem.
We can trust God and place our confidence in him for deliverance. We can seek him, and he will save us.
[Read through the Bible with us this year. Today’s reading is Isaiah 35-38, and today’s post is on Isaiah 36:4.]
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront a status quo faith and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.
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