ISAIAH 38

ISAIAH 38

ISAIAH 38

In the prime of life (v. 10), Hezekiah contracted a boil (v. 21) that so infected his body that he was told he would die (v. 1). All this happened before the events of chapters 36 and 37 (v. 6), but Hezekiah knew Assyria was coming. What a predicament to be in!

The king’s prayer was certainly a normal response. After all, most believers want to go on living and serving God. He was concerned, too, about the future of the nation in view of the Assyrian advance. At any rate, God not only answered his prayer but even gave him a special sign to encourage his faith.

Hezekiah pictured death as going through a gate (v. 10), taking down a tent (v. 12), being cut from a loom and rolled up (v. 12), and being attacked by a beast (v. 13). But he clung to the Word of God (v. 17) and gave praise to God for all He did (vv. 16–20).

Difficult experiences should give us a new appreciation for life and a new desire to live for the Lord.

“If you are swept off your feet, it is time to get on your knees.”

Frederick Beck

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