This chapter is a recount of 2 Kings 20. However, this chapter has a poem of praise that was not in 2 Kings. Here’s Hezekiah’s Poem of Praise that he wrote when he was well again:
“I said, ‘in the prime of my life, must I now enter the place of the dead? Am I to be robbed of my normal years?’ I said, “Never again will I see the Lord God while still in the land of the living. Never again will I see my friends or laugh with those who live in this world. My life has been blown away like a shepherd’s tent in a storm. It has been cut short, as when a weaver cuts cloth from a loom. Suddenly, my life was over. I waited patiently all night, but I was torn apart as though by lions. Suddenly, my life was over. Delirious, I chattered like a swallow or a crane, and then I moaned like a mourning dove. My eyes grew tired of looking to heaven for help. I am in trouble, Lord. Help me!” (Wow! How many times have we been in trouble and needed the Lord’s help? And more importantly, how often did he provide that help? Each and every time!!! Lord, you are sooooo good!)
But what could I say? For he himself had sent this sickness. Now I will walk humbly throughout my years because of this anguish I have felt. Lord, your discipline is good, for it leads to life and health. You have restored my health and have allowed me to live! Yes, it was good for me to suffer this anguish, for you have rescued me from death and have forgiven all my sins. For the dead cannot praise you; they cannot raise their voices in praise. Those who go down to destruction can no longer hope in your faithfulness. Only the living can praise you as I do today. Each generation can make known your faithfulness to the next. Think of it – the Lord has healed me! I will sing his praises with instruments every day of my life in the Temple of the Lord.” (Yes, Lord! Thank you for your amazing favor, mercy, and grace!)
As usual, read Isaiah 38 for yourself, see how it aligns with our lesson in 2 Kings 20, draw some conclusions, make some connections, and strive to deepen your knowledge.
Lord, thank you for your Word today! Thank you for saving our lives over and over and over again! Not one time have you forsaken us. Lord, we love you!
May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)
….AND MAY WE ALL PRACTICE THIS WITH ONE ANOTHER.
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