Hezekiah’s Faith: Understanding God’s Protection in Times of Crisis

Executive Summary ✨

2 Chronicles 32 vividly portrays King Hezekiah’s profound faith and strategic leadership during Sennacherib’s invasion of Judah. This chapter illuminates the intersection of human action and divine intervention. It highlights Hezekiah’s initial prudent preparations for war – strengthening defenses, securing water sources, and encouraging his people – followed by his unwavering reliance on God’s promise of deliverance. Despite Sennacherib’s arrogant threats and blasphemous words against the Lord, Hezekiah sought God’s guidance through prayer and the counsel of the prophet Isaiah. The chapter culminates in the miraculous destruction of the Assyrian army, demonstrating God’s ultimate sovereignty and protection of those who trust in Him. We will explore each verse in detail, drawing lessons relevant to our modern spiritual battles, emphasizing that true strength lies not in our own might, but in humbly seeking God’s will and acting in accordance with His wisdom. Hezekiah’s faith serves as a powerful example for us all.

The narrative in 2 Chronicles 32 serves as a testament to the power of faith in the face of overwhelming odds. This chapter shows us how to apply Hezekiah’s faith in our own lives.

Commentary Sections 📖

2 Chronicles 32:1 (KJV)

“After these things, and the establishment thereof, Sennacherib king of Assyria came, and entered into Judah, and encamped against the fenced cities, and thought to win them for himself.”

After Hezekiah’s reforms and the re-establishment of true worship, the storm clouds gather. Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, a formidable power, invades Judah. His intention is clear: to conquer and possess the fortified cities. This verse sets the stage for a crisis, revealing the fragility of even the most established spiritual revivals in the face of worldly opposition. We see here a parallel to our own lives – moments of spiritual growth are often followed by intense trials.

Spiritual Application: Be vigilant. Spiritual growth doesn’t guarantee immunity from trials. Expect opposition, but anchor your faith firmly in God. Be prepared to defend your faith through knowledge and prayer.

2 Chronicles 32:2-4 (KJV)

“And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib was come, and that he was purposed to fight against Jerusalem, He took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains which were without the city: and they did help him. So there was gathered much people together, who stopped all the fountains, and the brook that ran through the midst of the land, saying, Why should the kings of Assyria come, and find much water?”

Hezekiah demonstrates practical wisdom. Recognizing the threat, he consults with his leaders and takes decisive action. He orders the blocking of water sources outside Jerusalem, denying the Assyrians a vital resource. This proactive approach shows that faith isn’t passive; it’s coupled with intelligent preparation. The water supply was crucial for any siege, and Hezekiah understood the environmental challenges posed by a prolonged conflict. This highlights the importance of stewardship of resources, even in times of crisis. The people worked together, illustrating the power of unity and shared purpose.

Spiritual Application: Faith and action must go together. Don’t just pray for solutions; actively work towards them, using the resources and talents God has given you. Seek wise counsel and build community. We can link to https://dohost.us/build-a-website to gain access to community building tools and resources.

2 Chronicles 32:5 (KJV)

“Also he strengthened himself, and built up all the wall that was broken, and raised it up to the towers, and another wall without, and repaired Millo in the city of David, and made darts and shields in abundance.”

Hezekiah focuses on strengthening Jerusalem’s defenses. He repairs the broken walls, raises them higher, adds another wall for extra protection, and reinforces Millo. This verse emphasizes the importance of preparedness. It’s not enough to pray; we must also fortify ourselves spiritually and physically. The mention of “darts and shields in abundance” demonstrates Hezekiah’s commitment to equipping his people for battle.

Spiritual Application: Strengthen your spiritual defenses. Read the Word of God, pray regularly, and surround yourself with supportive Christian community. Arm yourself with the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18).

2 Chronicles 32:6-8 (KJV)

“And he set captains of war over the people, and gathered them together to him in the street of the gate, and spake comfortably to them, saying, Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed for the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him: With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God to help us, and to fight our battles. And the people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.”

Hezekiah rallies his people, appointing military leaders and delivering a message of courage and faith. He reminds them that their strength lies not in their numbers or weapons, but in the presence of God. This is a crucial turning point. Hezekiah shifts the focus from physical defenses to spiritual reliance. He draws a powerful contrast: the Assyrians rely on “an arm of flesh,” while Judah relies on the Almighty God. The people find comfort and strength in Hezekiah’s words. This illustrates the vital role of leadership in fostering faith and hope during times of adversity.

“Τίς Θεός μέγας ὡς ὁ Θεὸς ἡμῶν; Σὺ εἶ ὁ Θεὸς ὁ ποιῶν θαυμάσια μόνος.” (Psalm 76:13 LXX) – “What god is so great as our God? You are the God who alone works wonders.” This verse from the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament, resonates with Hezekiah’s message. It affirms God’s unparalleled power and His ability to perform miracles.

Spiritual Application: Remember that God is always with you. When facing overwhelming challenges, focus on His power and presence, not on the size of your problems. Encourage others to trust in God’s faithfulness.

2 Chronicles 32:9-15 (KJV)

“After this did Sennacherib king of Assyria send his servants to Jerusalem, (but he himself laid siege against Lachish,) unto Hezekiah king of Judah, and unto all Judah that were at Jerusalem, saying, Thus saith Sennacherib king of Assyria, Whereon do ye trust, that ye abide in the siege in Jerusalem? Doth not Hezekiah persuade you to die by famine and by thirst, saying, The Lord our God shall deliver you out of the hand of the king of Assyria? Hath not the same Hezekiah taken away his high places and his altars, and commanded Judah and Jerusalem, saying, Ye shall worship one altar, and burn incense upon it? Know ye not what I and my fathers have done unto all the people of other lands? were the gods of the nations of those lands any ways able to deliver their people out of mine hand? Who was there among all the gods of those nations that my fathers utterly destroyed, that could deliver his people out of mine hand, that your God should be able to deliver you out of mine hand? Now therefore let not Hezekiah deceive you, nor persuade you on this manner, neither yet believe him: for no god of any nation or kingdom was able to deliver his people out of mine hand, and out of the hand of my fathers: how much less shall your God deliver you out of mine hand?”

Sennacherib, while besieging Lachish, sends messengers to Jerusalem with a campaign of intimidation and blasphemy. He questions their trust in God, accusing Hezekiah of misleading them to their death. He boasts of his past victories over other nations and their gods, claiming that no god has been able to deliver anyone from his power. This section highlights the spiritual battle taking place alongside the physical one. Sennacherib’s words are designed to undermine the people’s faith and sow doubt. His tactic is to diminish God’s power and to instill fear. Notice his twisting of Hezekiah’s reforms – turning the destruction of idols into a point of ridicule. Sennacherib’s pride is blinding him to the true power of the God of Israel.

Spiritual Application: Be prepared to face spiritual attacks. Satan uses similar tactics – doubt, fear, and lies – to undermine our faith. Stand firm on the truth of God’s Word and resist the temptation to doubt His power and promises.

2 Chronicles 32:16-19 (KJV)

“And his servants spake yet more against the Lord God, and against his servant Hezekiah. He wrote letters also to rail on the Lord God of Israel, and to speak against him, saying, As the gods of the nations of other lands have not delivered their people out of mine hand, so shall not the God of Hezekiah deliver his people out of mine hand. Then they cried with a loud voice in the Jews’ speech unto the people of Jerusalem that were on the wall, to affright them, and to trouble them; that they might take the city. And they spake against the God of Jerusalem, as against the gods of the people of the earth, which were the work of the hands of men.”

Sennacherib’s servants escalate their attacks, speaking even more boldly against God and Hezekiah. They write letters filled with blasphemies, comparing the Lord to powerless idols. They shout these insults in Hebrew, aiming to terrify the people of Jerusalem and break their morale. This is a deliberate attempt to wage psychological warfare, to undermine their faith and drive them to surrender. The audacity of their words highlights the depth of their spiritual blindness. They equate the living God with inanimate idols, failing to recognize His unique and supreme power.

Spiritual Application: Recognize the nature of spiritual warfare. The enemy will use whatever means necessary to attack your faith – through words, actions, and even circumstances. Guard your heart and mind against doubt and fear. Remember that God is greater than any weapon the enemy can use against you.

2 Chronicles 32:20-22 (KJV)

“And for this cause Hezekiah the king, and the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz, prayed and cried unto heaven. And the Lord sent an angel, which cut off all the mighty men of valour, and the leaders and captains in the camp of the king of Assyria. So he returned with shame of face to his own land. And when he was come into the house of his god, they that came forth of his own bowels slew him there with the sword. Thus the Lord saved Hezekiah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem from the hand of Sennacherib the king of Assyria, and from the hand of all other, and guided them on every side.”

In response to the relentless attacks, Hezekiah and Isaiah turn to prayer. Their fervent cries reach heaven. God answers with a swift and decisive intervention: He sends an angel who destroys the Assyrian army. Sennacherib returns to his own land in disgrace and is later assassinated by his own sons in the temple of his god. This is a powerful demonstration of God’s faithfulness and His ability to deliver His people from even the most impossible situations. The angel’s intervention emphasizes God’s supernatural power and His willingness to fight for those who trust in Him. The destruction of the Assyrian army is a clear sign of God’s judgment against those who blaspheme His name.

Ἀγαπήσω σε, Κύριε, ἡ ἰσχύς μου. Κύριος στερέωμά μου καὶ καταφυγή μου καὶ ῥύστης μου. (Psalm 17:2-3 LXX) – “I will love You, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my firm foundation, my refuge, and my deliverer.” This verse echoes Hezekiah’s reliance on God and highlights the Lord’s role as protector and deliverer.

Spiritual Application: Prayer is a powerful weapon. When facing challenges, turn to God in prayer, trusting in His power to intervene on your behalf. Remember that God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).

2 Chronicles 32:23 (KJV)

“And many brought gifts unto the Lord to Jerusalem, and presents to Hezekiah king of Judah: so that he was magnified in the sight of all nations from thenceforth.”

Following the miraculous deliverance, people from various nations bring gifts to the Lord in Jerusalem and to King Hezekiah. This verse highlights the far-reaching impact of God’s victory. Hezekiah is magnified in the eyes of other nations, and the Lord is glorified. This demonstrates that God’s blessings extend beyond the immediate beneficiaries and can bring glory to His name throughout the world. The gifts and offerings are a tangible expression of gratitude and recognition of God’s power.

Spiritual Application: Give thanks to God for His blessings. Share your testimony with others, so that they too may come to know His power and faithfulness. Let your life be a living offering of praise to Him.

2 Chronicles 32:24-26 (KJV)

“In those days Hezekiah was sick to the death, and prayed unto the Lord: and he spake unto him, and he gave him a sign. But Hezekiah rendered not again according to the benefit done unto him; for his heart was lifted up: therefore there was wrath upon him, and upon Judah and Jerusalem. Notwithstanding Hezekiah humbled himself for the pride of his heart, both he and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the wrath of the Lord came not upon them in the days of Hezekiah.”

Hezekiah becomes deathly ill and prays to the Lord, who grants him a sign. However, Hezekiah’s heart becomes proud, and he fails to respond with proper gratitude. This results in God’s displeasure. Despite this, Hezekiah humbles himself, along with the people of Jerusalem, and God’s wrath is averted during his reign. This section highlights the dangers of pride and the importance of humility. Even after receiving great blessings, we must remain humble and give God the glory He deserves. Hezekiah’s initial pride is a reminder that even the most righteous individuals are susceptible to temptation. His subsequent repentance demonstrates the power of humility to avert God’s judgment.

Spiritual Application: Guard against pride. Remember that all good things come from God. Cultivate a humble and grateful heart. If you stumble, repent quickly and seek God’s forgiveness.

2 Chronicles 32:27-31 (KJV)

“And Hezekiah had exceeding much riches and honour: and he made himself treasuries for silver, and for gold, and for precious stones, and for spices, and for shields, and for all manner of pleasant jewels; Storehouses also for the increase of corn, and wine, and oil; and stalls for all manner of beasts, and cotes for flocks. Moreover he provided him cities, and possessions of flocks and herds in great abundance: for God had given him substance very much. This same Hezekiah also stopped the upper watercourse of Gihon, and brought it straight down to the west side of the city of David. And Hezekiah prospered in all his works. Howbeit in the business of the ambassadors of the princes of Babylon, who sent unto him to enquire of the wonder that was done in the land, God left him, to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart.”

Hezekiah prospers greatly, accumulating wealth and honor. He builds treasuries and storehouses, reflecting his wise management of resources. He continues to improve the city’s water supply by diverting the Gihon spring. However, when ambassadors from Babylon arrive to inquire about the miraculous sign, God withdraws His direct guidance to test Hezekiah’s heart. This section highlights the responsibilities that come with blessings. Hezekiah’s wealth and prosperity are a testament to God’s favor, but they also present a potential trap. The visit from the Babylonian ambassadors is a crucial test of his humility and dependence on God. God’s withdrawal is not abandonment, but a deliberate act to reveal Hezekiah’s true character.

Spiritual Application: Be a good steward of the blessings God has given you. Use your resources to glorify Him and to bless others. Be wary of pride and self-reliance. Always seek God’s guidance in all your decisions. Remember, prosperity can be a greater test than adversity.

2 Chronicles 32:32-33 (KJV)

“Now the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, and his goodness, behold, they are written in the vision of Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, and in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel. And Hezekiah slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the chiefest of the sepulchres of the sons of David: and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem did him honour at his death.”

The final verses summarize Hezekiah’s reign, noting that his deeds and piety are recorded in the writings of Isaiah and in the chronicles of the kings. Hezekiah dies and is buried with great honor, a testament to his righteous leadership. This concluding section emphasizes the importance of leaving a legacy of faith and righteousness. Hezekiah’s life serves as an example of how to respond to adversity with courage, faith, and humility. His memory is honored by his people, reflecting the lasting impact of his godly leadership.

Spiritual Application: Strive to live a life that honors God and inspires others. Let your actions be a testimony to your faith. Remember that your legacy will be determined by your character and your commitment to God’s will.

Subtopic Sections 💡

Let’s explore the key spiritual lessons we can learn from 2 Chronicles 32:

• Trust in God’s Sovereignty: Even when facing seemingly insurmountable odds, remember that God is in control. He has the power to deliver you from any situation.
• Prayer is Powerful: Cultivate a consistent prayer life. Turn to God in prayer during times of trouble and rejoice.
• Humility is Essential: Guard against pride. Always give God the glory for your successes and remain humble in His presence.
• Faith Requires Action: Don’t just pray; take practical steps to address the challenges you face. Combine your faith with wise planning and diligent effort.
• Resist Spiritual Attacks: Be aware of the enemy’s tactics – doubt, fear, and lies. Stand firm on the truth of God’s Word and resist the temptation to be discouraged.
• Be a Good Steward: Use the resources God has given you to glorify Him and bless others. Manage your wealth wisely and give generously.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about 2 Chronicles 32 and its implications for our faith:

• Q: Why did God allow Sennacherib to invade Judah if Hezekiah was a righteous king?

  A: God often allows trials to test and refine our faith. Sennacherib’s invasion was a test for Hezekiah and the people of Judah. It allowed them to demonstrate their trust in God and to experience His power in a tangible way.

• Q: What does it mean to “stop the waters” as Hezekiah did?

  A: Stopping the waters was a strategic military maneuver to deny the enemy a vital resource. Spiritually, it can be interpreted as cutting off access to anything that might weaken our faith or distract us from God. This requires discernment and action.

• Q: How can I apply Hezekiah’s example of faith in my everyday life?

  A: By trusting in God’s sovereignty, praying regularly, remaining humble, taking practical steps to address challenges, and resisting spiritual attacks. Remember that God is always with you and that He will never leave you nor forsake you.

• Q: Why was Hezekiah tested after God had already shown him so much favor?

  A: God tests us to reveal our true character and to help us grow in humility and dependence on Him. Even after receiving great blessings, we must remain vigilant against pride and self-reliance. Hezekiah’s test with the Babylonian ambassadors revealed a weakness in his heart, prompting him to repent and seek God’s forgiveness.

Conclusion ✨

2 Chronicles 32 is more than just a historical account; it’s a timeless lesson in faith, leadership, and God’s unwavering protection. The story of Hezekiah’s faith demonstrates the importance of combining practical preparation with unwavering trust in God. Hezekiah’s response to Sennacherib’s threat – strengthening defenses, fortifying the city, and most importantly, turning to God in prayer – provides a blueprint for navigating the challenges we face in our own lives. When we face overwhelming odds, we should remember that God is greater than any obstacle. By seeking His guidance, acting in accordance with His will, and remaining humble in His presence, we can experience His miraculous deliverance and witness His glory revealed in our lives. Let us learn from Hezekiah’s example and strive to live lives of unwavering faith and obedience to God.

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Hezekiah, Sennacherib, Assyria, Faith, Prayer, Deliverance, Protection, Spiritual Warfare, Humility, Leadership

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Explore 2 Chronicles 32: Hezekiah’s faith, Sennacherib’s threat, and God’s miraculous deliverance. Discover spiritual lessons on faith, leadership, and protection.