Trusting God's Deliverance in Times of Adversity
March 21
Scripture: 2 Kings 18:1 - 21:26 (NIV)
In 2 Kings 18:1 - 21:26, we witness a series of events unfolding in the kingdoms of Judah and Israel, marked by political turmoil, invasion, and spiritual apostasy. Amidst the chaos, we see the contrasting responses of various kings to the challenges they face, highlighting the importance of faithfulness and trust in God.
The passage begins with the reign of Hezekiah in Judah, a king who seeks to restore the worship of Yahweh and lead his people back to God. Hezekiah's commitment to God is evident in his actions, as he removes the high places, destroys idols, and restores the temple worship. Despite facing threats from the Assyrian king Sennacherib, Hezekiah remains steadfast in his trust in God's deliverance.
One important verse from this passage is found in 2 Kings 19:14-19, where Hezekiah prays to God for deliverance from the Assyrian threat:
"Hezekiah received the letter from the messengers and read it. Then he went up to the temple of the Lord and spread it out before the Lord.
And Hezekiah prayed to the Lord: 'Lord, the God of Israel, enthroned between the cherubim, you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth.
You have made heaven and earth. Give ear, Lord, and hear; open your eyes, Lord, and see; listen to the words Sennacherib has sent to ridicule the living God.
It is true, Lord, that the Assyrian kings have laid waste these nations and their lands. They have thrown their gods into the fire and destroyed them, for they were not gods but only wood and stone, fashioned by human hands.
Now, Lord our God, deliver us from his hand, so that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you, Lord, are the only God.'"
(2 Kings 19:14-19, NIV)
This prayer of Hezekiah demonstrates his complete dependence on God and his recognition of God's sovereignty over all the nations. Hezekiah appeals to God's power and reputation, asking for deliverance not only for the sake of Judah but also for the glory of God's name.
As the narrative progresses, we see God's faithfulness in answering Hezekiah's prayer by sending an angel to strike down the Assyrian army, delivering Judah from destruction. However, despite witnessing God's miraculous intervention, Hezekiah later succumbs to pride and displays his treasures to the Babylonian envoys, leading to God's judgment on Judah.
This passage reminds us of the importance of humility and trust in God's providence. It shows that even in the face of overwhelming odds, God is able to deliver His people when they turn to Him in faith and obedience. It also serves as a warning against pride and self-reliance, which can lead to spiritual downfall.
Let us pray for the faith of Hezekiah, to trust in God's deliverance in times of adversity. May we humble ourselves before the Lord, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His guidance in all things. May our lives be a testimony to His faithfulness and power, that all the nations may know that He alone is God.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, acknowledging Your sovereignty and power over all the earth.
Help us to trust in Your deliverance in times of trouble, knowing that You are able to save us from all our enemies. Keep us from pride and self-reliance, and guide us in Your ways of righteousness.
May our lives bring glory to Your name, that all the nations may know that You alone are God.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
