Hezekiah’s Humility: Finding God in Illness and Pride

Executive Summary ✨

2 Kings 20 tells a potent story of faith, humility, and divine intervention. Facing a terminal illness, King Hezekiah turns to God in fervent prayer, and his life is miraculously extended. However, the chapter doesn’t end there. It reveals a subsequent test when Hezekiah, basking in his restored health and newfound prominence after defeating the Assyrians, succumbs to pride, displaying his wealth to Babylonian envoys. This act of vainglory incurs divine displeasure, foreshadowing the future captivity of Judah. The chapter ultimately highlights the precarious nature of human strength and the indispensable need for continuous humility and reliance on God’s grace. This account of Hezekiah’s humility is crucial for understanding the human condition and the transformative power of repentance. The story serves as a powerful reminder of the blessings of humility and the consequences of pride in our relationship with God.

This chapter from 2 Kings offers profound insights into the human experience of illness, answered prayer, and the ever-present temptation of pride. Hezekiah’s journey is a microcosm of our own spiritual battles, teaching us the importance of seeking God’s face in times of trouble and maintaining a humble heart in times of prosperity. Let’s delve into each verse, uncovering the spiritual treasures hidden within.

Commentary Sections 📖

2 Kings 20:1 (KJV)

“In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live.”

2 Kings 20:1 (NKJV)

“In those days Hezekiah was sick and near death. And Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, went to him and said to him, “Thus says the Lord: ‘Set your house in order, for you shall die, and not live.’”

Here, we find Hezekiah facing a stark prognosis. Isaiah, the prophet, delivers a message of impending death. This is a moment of profound crisis. The phrase “set thine house in order” speaks not only to practical arrangements for succession and property but also to a deeper spiritual preparation for eternity. In the face of death, all earthly concerns pale in comparison to the state of one’s soul.

St. Athanasius notes: “Ὅ γὰρ θάνατος οὐκ ἔστι τέλος, ἀλλὰ μετάβασις.” (“For death is not an end, but a transition.” – Athanasius, *De Incarnatione*, PG 25:192). The reality of death should spur us to examine our lives, to confess our sins, and to seek reconciliation with God and our neighbor.

• Spiritual Application: When facing trials, especially regarding health, our first instinct should be to turn to God in prayer and repentance. We must also practically prepare, but our eternal state takes precedence.

2 Kings 20:2-3 (KJV)

“Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, saying, I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore.”

2 Kings 20:2-3 (NKJV)

“Then he turned his face toward the wall, and prayed to the Lord, saying, “Remember now, O Lord, I pray, how I have walked before You in truth and with a loyal heart, and have done what was good in Your sight.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly.”

Hezekiah’s response is immediate and heartfelt prayer. Turning his face to the wall signifies a turning away from the distractions of the world and a focusing on God alone. His prayer is a plea based on his past faithfulness. He reminds God of his sincere service. This is not boasting, but rather a sincere appeal to God’s justice and mercy. Notice, however, his deep sorrow. The phrase “wept bitterly” underscores the genuine distress and humility of his heart. This is not a calculated performance, but an authentic outpouring of grief and supplication. Such earnestness moves the heart of God.

St. Cyril of Alexandria writes: “Ἡ γὰρ προσευχὴ ὅταν γένηται μετὰ δακρύων, θᾶττον εἰσακούεται.” (“For prayer, when offered with tears, is more quickly heard.” – Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Luke*, PG 72:464). Tears are often the language of a broken and contrite heart, a sacrifice that God will not despise (Psalm 51:17).

• Spiritual Application: We should imitate Hezekiah’s example by turning to God in prayer during times of crisis, remembering His faithfulness and appealing to His mercy. Our prayers should be sincere, heartfelt, and accompanied by genuine repentance. If you need website assistance or even just want a place to build out your online presence, check out this website design for small business.

2 Kings 20:4-6 (KJV)

“And it came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle court, that the word of the LORD came to him, saying, Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the LORD. And I will add unto thy days fifteen years; and I will deliver thee and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria; and I will defend this city for mine own sake, and for my servant David’s sake.”

2 Kings 20:4-6 (NKJV)

“And it happened, before Isaiah had gone out into the middle court, that the word of the Lord came to him, saying, “Turn back, and tell Hezekiah the leader of My people, ‘Thus says the Lord, the God of David your father: “I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears; surely I will heal you; on the third day you shall go up to the house of the Lord. And I will add to your life fifteen years. I will deliver you and this city from the hand of the king of Assyria; and I will defend this city for My own sake, and for My servant David’s sake.”’”

God’s response is swift and merciful. Before Isaiah even leaves the palace grounds, God intervenes. This demonstrates the immediacy and power of prayer. God not only hears Hezekiah’s prayer but also sees his tears. This emphasizes God’s intimate knowledge of our suffering and His compassion towards us. The message is threefold: healing, extended life, and deliverance from the Assyrians. The healing is immediate – Hezekiah will go to the Temple in three days. Fifteen years are added to his life, a testament to God’s power to alter the course of nature. Finally, Jerusalem is promised protection from the Assyrian threat. This is all done for God’s own sake and for the sake of David, highlighting God’s covenant faithfulness.

St. Gregory of Nyssa writes: “Ἡ θεία χάρις οὐκ ἀναμένει τὰς ἡμετέρας ἀξίας, ἀλλ᾽ αὐτὴ προφθάνει καὶ δίδωσι.” (“Divine grace does not wait for our merits, but it anticipates and gives.” – Gregory of Nyssa, *Against Eunomius*, PG 45:420). God’s grace is unmerited favor. It is not based on what we deserve, but on His boundless love and mercy.

• Spiritual Application: This passage reminds us that God hears and answers prayer. We should never underestimate the power of earnest supplication. We should also recognize that God’s blessings are often given out of His grace, not based on our merit.

2 Kings 20:7-8 (KJV)

“And Isaiah said, Take a lump of figs. And they took and laid it on the boil, and he recovered. And Hezekiah said unto Isaiah, What shall be the sign that the LORD will heal me, and that I shall go up into the house of the LORD the third day?”

2 Kings 20:7-8 (NKJV)

“Then Isaiah said, “Take a cake of figs.” So they took and laid it on the boil, and he recovered. And Hezekiah said to Isaiah, “What is the sign that the Lord will heal me, and that I shall go up to the house of the Lord the third day?”

Isaiah prescribes a simple remedy: a poultice of figs. While this may seem like a natural remedy, it is important to remember that the healing ultimately comes from God. The figs are simply an instrument in His hands. Hezekiah then asks for a sign to confirm the Lord’s promise. This is not necessarily a lack of faith, but rather a desire for assurance and confirmation. He wants to know that the healing is truly from God and that he will indeed be able to go to the Temple on the third day.

The act of applying figs as a poultice aligns with ancient Near Eastern medical practices. Figs were known for their healing properties and were commonly used to treat skin ailments. This illustrates how God can work through both natural and supernatural means to accomplish His purposes.

• Spiritual Application: God often uses both natural and supernatural means to accomplish His will. We should not despise natural remedies, but we should always acknowledge that the ultimate source of healing is God. While seeking signs is not inherently wrong, we should be careful not to demand them from God or to base our faith solely on them.

2 Kings 20:9-11 (KJV)

“And Isaiah said, This sign shalt thou have of the LORD, that the LORD will do the thing that he hath spoken: shall the shadow go forward ten degrees, or go back ten degrees? And Hezekiah answered, It is a light thing for the shadow to go forward ten degrees: nay, but let the shadow return backward ten degrees. And Isaiah the prophet cried unto the LORD: and he brought the shadow ten degrees backward, by which it had gone down in the dial of Ahaz.”

2 Kings 20:9-11 (NKJV)

“And Isaiah said, “This is the sign to you from the Lord, that the Lord will do the thing which He has spoken: shall the shadow go forward ten degrees or go backward ten degrees?” And Hezekiah answered, “It is an easy thing for the shadow to go down ten degrees; no, but let the shadow go backward ten degrees.” So Isaiah the prophet cried out to the Lord, and He brought the shadow backward ten degrees on the sundial of Ahaz.”

Isaiah offers Hezekiah a choice of signs: the shadow moving forward or backward on the sundial of Ahaz. Hezekiah chooses the more difficult sign – the shadow going backward. This demonstrates his faith that God is capable of doing the impossible. God grants this extraordinary request, reversing the natural order of the universe. This is a powerful demonstration of God’s sovereignty and His ability to intervene in the world. The “dial of Ahaz” was likely a staircase or pillar that functioned as a sundial, measuring time by the position of the sun’s shadow. The location of this sundial in Jerusalem would have made this event visible to a large number of people, further emphasizing its significance.

St. Ephrem the Syrian writes: “Οὐδὲν ἀδύνατον παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ.” (“Nothing is impossible with God.” – Ephrem the Syrian, *Commentary on the Diatessaron*, 4.15). God is not bound by the laws of nature. He is the creator and sustainer of the universe, and He is able to do whatever He wills.

• Spiritual Application: We should not limit God by our own understanding of what is possible. We should trust that He is able to do the impossible in our lives. This passage also reinforces the idea that God responds to faith.

2 Kings 20:12-13 (KJV)

“At that time Berodachbaladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present unto Hezekiah: for he had heard that Hezekiah had been sick. And Hezekiah hearkened unto them, and showed them all the house of his precious things, the silver, and the gold, and the spices, and the precious ointment, and all the house of his armour, and all that was found in his treasures: there was nothing in his house, nor in all his dominion, that Hezekiah showed them not.”

2 Kings 20:12-13 (NKJV)

“At that time Berodach-Baladan the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he had heard that Hezekiah had been sick. And Hezekiah was pleased with them, and showed them all the house of his treasures—the silver and gold, the spices and precious ointment, and all his armory—all that was found in his treasuries. There was nothing in his house or in all his realm that Hezekiah did not show them.”

This marks a turning point. Envoys from Babylon, led by Berodach-Baladan (also known as Merodach-Baladan), arrive with letters and a gift. Their visit is ostensibly to congratulate Hezekiah on his recovery, but it also has political undertones. Babylon was a rising power seeking to form alliances against Assyria. Hezekiah, instead of acknowledging God’s deliverance, welcomes them and displays all his wealth and military strength. He shows them “all the house of his precious things.” This is an act of pride and self-exaltation. He is taking credit for his own prosperity and neglecting to give God the glory.

The Babylonian envoys were likely impressed by Hezekiah’s wealth and power, but their visit also provided them with valuable intelligence about Judah’s resources and vulnerabilities. This ultimately paved the way for the future Babylonian invasion and captivity.

• Spiritual Application: Success and prosperity can be a dangerous temptation. We must be careful to remain humble and to give God the glory for all that we have. We should also be discerning about the company we keep and the influences we allow into our lives.

2 Kings 20:14-19 (KJV)

“Then came Isaiah the prophet unto king Hezekiah, and said unto him, What said these men? and from whence came they unto thee? And Hezekiah said, They are come from a far country, even from Babylon. And he said, What have they seen in thine house? And Hezekiah answered, All that is in mine house have they seen: there is nothing among my treasures that I have not showed them. Then said Isaiah unto Hezekiah, Hear the word of the LORD. Behold, the days come, that all that is in thine house, and that which thy fathers have laid up in store unto this day, shall be carried into Babylon: nothing shall be left, saith the LORD. And of thy sons that shall issue from thee, shall they take away; and they shall be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon. 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 20:14-19 (NKJV)

“Then Isaiah the prophet went to King Hezekiah, and said to him, “What did these men say? And from where did they come to you?” So Hezekiah said, “They came from a far country, from Babylon.” And Isaiah said, “What have they seen in your house?” And Hezekiah answered, “They have seen all that is in my house; there is nothing among my treasures that I have not shown them.” Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, “Hear the word of the Lord: ‘Behold, the days are coming when all that is in your house, and what your fathers have accumulated until this day, shall be carried to Babylon; nothing shall be left,’ says the Lord. ‘And some of your sons who will descend from you, they shall take away; and they shall be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.’” So Hezekiah said to Isaiah, “The word of the Lord which you have spoken is good!” For he said, “Will there not be peace and truth at least in my days?”

Isaiah confronts Hezekiah about his actions. Hezekiah’s response is revealing. He is honest about showing the Babylonians everything, but he does not express any remorse or repentance. Isaiah then delivers a prophecy of judgment: all of Hezekiah’s treasures will be carried off to Babylon, and some of his descendants will be taken as eunuchs to serve in the Babylonian palace. This is a direct consequence of Hezekiah’s pride and his failure to acknowledge God’s sovereignty. Hezekiah’s final response is troubling. He accepts the judgment with a degree of resignation, seemingly content as long as he experiences peace and stability in his own lifetime. This suggests a lack of concern for the future of his kingdom and his descendants.

The prophecy came to pass approximately a century later, when Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, conquered Jerusalem and carried away its treasures and inhabitants into exile (2 Kings 24-25). This serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of heeding God’s warnings.

St. John Chrysostom writes: “Ἡ γὰρ ἀλαζονεία ἑαυτὴν ἀπατᾷ, καὶ τοὺς ἄλλους.” (“For boastfulness deceives itself and others.” – John Chrysostom, *Homilies on Matthew*, PG 57:361). Pride blinds us to our own weaknesses and leads us to make foolish decisions.

• Spiritual Application: We must be vigilant against the sin of pride. We should always acknowledge God’s sovereignty and give Him the glory for all that we have. We should also be concerned about the future and the impact of our actions on future generations.

2 Kings 20:20-21 (KJV)

“And the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, and all his might, and how he made a pool, and a conduit, and brought water into the city, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah? So Hezekiah slept with his fathers: and Manasseh his son reigned in his stead.”

2 Kings 20:20-21 (NKJV)

“Now the rest of the acts of Hezekiah—all his might, and how he made a pool and a tunnel and brought water into the city—are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah? So Hezekiah rested with his fathers. Then Manasseh his son reigned in his place.”

The chapter concludes with a brief summary of Hezekiah’s reign, highlighting his accomplishments, including the construction of a pool and conduit to bring water into Jerusalem. This refers to the Siloam Tunnel, an impressive engineering feat that ensured a reliable water supply for the city during sieges. The passage also mentions that Hezekiah “slept with his fathers,” indicating his death and burial. Manasseh, his son, succeeds him as king. This serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of earthly power and the inevitability of death. Even the most righteous and successful rulers eventually pass away, and their legacy is ultimately determined by their faithfulness to God.

Archaeological evidence confirms the existence of the Siloam Tunnel, which is still accessible to visitors today. The tunnel is a testament to Hezekiah’s ingenuity and his commitment to protecting his people.

• Spiritual Application: We should strive to live a life of purpose and to use our talents and abilities to serve God and others. We should also remember that our earthly accomplishments are temporary and that our ultimate goal should be to inherit eternal life.

Subtopic Sections 💡

Here are some key reflections on the themes explored in 2 Kings 20:

• The Power of Prayer: Hezekiah’s fervent prayer demonstrates the transformative power of seeking God’s intervention in times of crisis.
• The Danger of Pride: Hezekiah’s act of displaying his wealth reveals the insidious nature of pride and its potential to lead to downfall.
• God’s Sovereignty: The sign of the reversed shadow underscores God’s sovereignty over creation and His ability to defy natural laws.
• The Consequences of Sin: Isaiah’s prophecy highlights the long-term consequences of sin and the importance of repentance and humility.
• God’s Grace and Mercy: Despite Hezekiah’s failings, God demonstrates grace and mercy by answering his prayer and extending his life.
• Importance of Humility: Hezekiah learned to embrace Hezekiah’s humility. It saved him from early death.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about 2 Kings 20:

• Q: Why did God extend Hezekiah’s life?
  A: God extended Hezekiah’s life in response to his heartfelt prayer and repentance. God saw his sincerity and had compassion on him. This also demonstrated God’s power and willingness to intervene in human affairs.
• Q: Was it wrong for Hezekiah to ask for a sign?
  A: Asking for a sign is not inherently wrong, but it should not be motivated by doubt or a lack of faith. In Hezekiah’s case, it seems to have been a desire for assurance and confirmation that God would fulfill His promise.
• Q: What was the significance of the sundial of Ahaz?
  A: The sundial of Ahaz was a device used to measure time by the position of the sun’s shadow. The fact that God reversed the shadow on this sundial was a powerful demonstration of His sovereignty and His ability to defy natural laws.
• Q: What lessons can we learn from Hezekiah’s story?
  A: We can learn the importance of prayer, humility, and giving God the glory for our blessings. We should also be vigilant against the sin of pride and be concerned about the future and the impact of our actions on future generations.

Conclusion ✨

The story of Hezekiah in 2 Kings 20 is a powerful reminder of the blessings of humility and the dangers of pride. Hezekiah’s illness serves as a catalyst for fervent prayer, resulting in miraculous healing and an extended life. However, his subsequent display of wealth to the Babylonian envoys reveals a vulnerability to pride, leading to a prophecy of future judgment. This chapter teaches us that even in times of success and prosperity, we must remain grounded in humility, constantly seeking God’s guidance and giving Him the glory for all that we have. Embracing Hezekiah’s humility, we can learn to navigate the complexities of life, finding strength in prayer and remaining mindful of God’s unwavering sovereignty. The call to humility is not a sign of weakness, but a recognition of our reliance on God’s grace, enabling us to live a life that is pleasing to Him. Let us remember the lessons of Hezekiah, striving for humility in all our ways, and ensuring that God receives all the honor and praise.

Tags

Hezekiah, 2 Kings 20, Prayer, Humility, Pride, Isaiah, Healing, Babylon, Prophecy, Repentance

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Explore 2 Kings 20: Hezekiah’s illness, answered prayer, and lapse into pride. Learn about Hezekiah’s humility & the dangers of pride, with Coptic Orthodox commentary.