King Hezekiah: Episode Three
It’s said a good story has interesting and complex characters (the ‘who’), a specific setting (the ‘where and when’), while at the same time a reason to read it or a developing plot (the ‘what happened’). King Hezekiah’s story fits all of the elements listed but with a multilayered plot. It seems the problem is to determine who he believes is stronger: God or his enemy. It’s the same plot or problem we have; Satan doesn’t have any new ideas he keeps repeating the same old story.
So, what’s happening? God’s people are experiencing the fear of annihilation by a foreign empire who uses many strategies against them. Not only fear but discouragement, mockery, disrespect, and even abusive language toward Judah’s God. The dramatic question finally surfaces, “Who’s more powerful?”
When the enemy began his encroachment toward Judah Hezekiah reacted in a practical way rather than a spiritual way. He strengthened the military by making more weapons, He set officers in strategic places, He stopped the enemy’s water supply, and He built up the walls of Jerusalem again. He did everything he knew to do … in the lower story. I think we do the same thing when the enemy encroaches into our lives. We do everything we know to do … in our lower story. The plot of Hezekiah’s story is to show us to pitfalls in spiritual warfare not trusting in our own strength to change things but dependance on God, through prayer, to show us how to defeat our enemy His way.
Assyria, Judah’s enemy, was relentless; they wouldn’t give up under any circumstances. Their strategy was to wear down the saints by keeping God’s people focused on the lower story and not on God’s intervention. Even though God allowed the enemy to successfully pursue His people and withdrew His protection for a time it was to direct Hezekiah’s attention back to faith. Does that scenario sound familiar? God needed to show the king his lack of ability to defend Judah in a natural way and trust in His supernatural ways; maybe that’s what He’s saying to you today.
We come to the turning point of the first layer of the plot finding Hezekiah at the end of himself and entering into prayer with humility and sorrow. He considered the questions of the enemy, “Do you think mere words are strategy and power for war? Where is your confidence? Who do you trust? What’s God done for you?” King Hezekiah also sent for the prophet Isaiah in order to hear from God and wasn’t disappointed. The prophetic word was ‘do not be afraid; I will take care of you’.
If you’re in a situation where the enemy seems to be gaining ground you can follow the example of Hezekiah; go to God in humble prayer and seek His direction. We’re encouraged not to fear but trust Him to guide us by His Spirit when we’re confused or unsure of what to do. What’s your answer? Who’s more powerful?
Comments are closed.