May 28, 2024

God sent Isaiah to Hezekiah to tell him he would die from the boil he had and to get his house in order. Hezekiah prayed for God to heal him and give him more time, and before Isaiah was too far away, God sent him back to Hezekiah to tell him he would heal him. Hezekiah wanted a sign to know when God had healed him, and he gave him a choice to either have the shadow on Ahaz's sundial go forward or backward. Hezekiah chose backward since it would be harder to do. Hezekiah lived for fifteen more years. An interesting note is that Isaiah told him to use figs to draw the poison out of his boil, a natural remedy. I'll bet figs could be helpful for boils today.

Hearing about Hezekiah's sickness, the king of Babylon sent an envoy bearing gifts and goodwill. Hezekiah, unfortunately, allowed himself to be swayed by their flattery and decided to show them all the treasures of his kingdom. This act of pride and lack of humility, not giving God credit for his wealth, and not valuing Isaiah as the messenger of God had severe consequences. Isaiah prophesied that Babylon would carry away all the treasures of the kingdom and his sons would become eunuchs and work for the king, a harsh reminder of the importance of humility and gratitude.  

Hezekiah was a good guy and loved God, but that didn't keep him from getting sick to death. Our devotion to God doesn't ensure we won't get sick or face hard times. It also doesn't protect our children from suffering. We each have our own burdens to bear. We should look at them as Hezekiah did and understand that if God brings it, it is good, even if it causes us or our children discomfort and stress. 

Then said Hezekiah unto Isaiah, Good is the word of the LORD which thou hast spoken. And he said, Is it not good, if peace and truth be in my days? 2 Kings 20:19