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TODAY'S READING:

- 2 Kings 19:1-19, Isaiah 37:1-20, 2 Chronicles 32:9-19, 2 Kings 19:20-37, Isaiah 37:21-38, 2 Chronicles 32:20-23

WORD OF THE DAY:

- Defend

Today’s readings come from parallel accounts in the Old Testament: 2 Kings 19:1-19, Isaiah 37:1-20, and 2 Chronicles 32:9-19. These passages describe a critical moment in the history of Judah, where King Hezekiah faced a dire threat from the Assyrian King Sennacherib. The Assyrian king sent his officers to intimidate the people of Jerusalem, boasting about his past victories and mocking the God of Israel.

In 2 Chronicles 32:19, it states, "These officers talked about the God of Jerusalem as though he were one of the pagan gods, made by human hands." Sennacherib’s officers spoke in Hebrew to demoralize the people, claiming that no god had ever saved a nation from Assyria, implying that the Lord couldn’t either. This mockery was meant to weaken the resolve of Jerusalem’s inhabitants, but King Hezekiah responded differently.

Upon hearing the threats, Hezekiah tore his clothes, put on sackcloth, and went into the temple of the Lord. He sent his officials to the prophet Isaiah to seek the Lord’s guidance. Isaiah reassured them.

Hezekiah received a blasphemous letter from Sennacherib, which he spread out before the Lord in the temple and prayed for deliverance. He acknowledged the reality of Assyria’s conquests but asserted his trust in God. He prayed.

God answered Hezekiah’s prayer through Isaiah, promising deliverance and prophesying Sennacherib’s downfall. The Lord sent an angel who destroyed the Assyrian army, forcing Sennacherib to return home in disgrace, where he was killed by his own sons.

Hezekiah’s story underscores the power of prayer and trust in God. Despite overwhelming odds, Hezekiah did not rely on his strength but sought the Lord’s intervention. His prayer mattered, and God’s response demonstrated His sovereignty and faithfulness.

In today’s world, we might feel the need to defend God against skeptics and critics. However, Hezekiah’s example shows that God is fully capable of defending Himself. Instead of responding with anger, we can:

Engage in respectful dialogue.
Educate ourselves in God’s Word to provide thoughtful answers.
Love others, including those who doubt or mock our faith.
Live out our faith, demonstrating the fruits of the Spirit.
Pray for those who oppose or misunderstand us.

God’s promise to defend His people is unchanging. Just as He defended Jerusalem, He will defend and support us in our times of trouble.

The story of Hezekiah and Sennacherib is a powerful testament to the effectiveness of prayer, the importance of trusting God, and the assurance that God will act on behalf of His people. Let us be encouraged to follow Hezekiah’s example by turning to God in our moments of need, confident that He will defend us and uphold His name.

Reflection Questions:

How can you apply Hezekiah’s example of prayer and trust in your own life?
In what ways can you engage in respectful dialogue about your faith with others?
How can you show the fruits of the Spirit in your daily interactions?

By focusing on these principles, we can grow in our faith and witness to others the mighty power and love of our God.

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Day 203 - Defend and Deliver: Hezekiah’s Faith in God’s Power (2 Kings 19:1-19, Isaiah 37:1-20, 2 Chronicles 32:9-19, 2 Kings 19:20-37, Isaiah 37:21-38, 2 Chronicles 32:20-23 ) - Year 2 23:50 Share

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Day 203 - Defend and Deliver: Hezekiah’s Faith in God’s Power (2 Kings 19:1-19, Isaiah 37:1-20, 2 Chronicles 32:9-19, 2 Kings 19:20-37, Isaiah 37:21-38, 2 Chronicles 32:20-23 ) - Year 2