Have you ever had a Bible story hit you in the face? I’m sitting here trying to figure out how to tell others to be humble when, in my mind, I am far from it. Here is a perfect example of learning a truth and doing what the Bible says, not what others do.
Merodach-baladan, the king of Babylon, had heard of Hezekiah’s sickness and recovery. He acknowledged his concern for him and had sent him letters and a gift. Hezekiah was grateful, and when the Babylonian king decided to come for a visit, he was hospitable and showed him all his treasures. God saw it as arrogance, but didn’t punish Hezekiah; however, his sons would become eunuchs, and the treasures of his kingdom would be carried off to Babylon after he passed. God promised him peace until he died.
Then said Isaiah to Hezekiah, Hear the word of the LORD of hosts: Behold, the days come, that all that is in thine house, and that which thy fathers have laid up in store until this day, shall be carried to Babylon: nothing shall be left, saith the LORD. Isaiah 39:5-6
Hezekiah didn’t mean any harm by being hospitable to Merodach-baladan. He likely considered himself a good host, but God saw it as him showing off his riches. This lesson is hard for me to teach because I’m guilty of tastefully displaying my treasures of gold and precious stones on my body. After all, I love sparkly and extraordinary things. This teaching is quite humbling, even though I attribute everything I have to gifts from God. He had also filled the coffers of Judah, which Hezekiah showed off to the king of Babylon. Stay humble, my friends, consider how others see you, and determine whether it is pleasing to God or arrogance.
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