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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise I say with Hezekiah, “O Lord of hosts, God of Israel, enthroned above the cherubim, you are the God, you alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; you have made heaven and earth” (Isa 37:16). You are the living God, and you can save all those who call upon your name. I worship you today and praise your name! Glory to God! Today in Your Word Today you told me how you delivered Hezekiah from the Assyrians. After Sennacherib defeated Lachish, he moved on to Libnah, a city around 15–20 miles from Jerusalem. While he was attacking it, he received word that Tirhakah, the Cushite king of Egypt, was marching in his direction. Worried that this news might embolden Hezekiah, Sennacherib sent a taunting letter, warning him not to trust in you. Hezekiah took this letter and spread it out before you. He prayed, “O Lord our God, save us from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you alone are the Lord” (Isa 37:20). This teaches me the importance of casting my cares on you and laying my problems at your feet. It also reminds me that others are watching how I deal with trials and troubles. Many times your plan is to reach the lost by showing yourself mighty on my behalf! You replied with a letter of your own to Sennacherib: “The Virgin Daughter of Zion despises and mocks you. The Daughter of Jerusalem tosses her head as you flee” (Isa 37:22 NIV). You told him that all his conquests had been ordained by you long ago, and that you would put a hook in his nose and drag him back to Nineveh. Sure enough, your angel killed the army that was surrounding Jerusalem—185,000 men! Sennacherib returned home in shame and defeat. Reflection Sennacherib’s blasphemous letter was the last straw for Hezekiah (Isa 37:17). How dare this Assyrian king speak to you like that! Hezekiah’s zeal for your name is inspiring. It teaches me that when I see you for who you truly are, my primary concern will be for your vindication and glory. Request Father, give me a renewed sense of your grandeur and majesty. Help me to see you with the eyes of faith and to be zealous for the greatness of your name. Thanksgiving Thank you for the promise that you will be my rock and my shield. How wonderful it is to serve a God who reigns supreme over the nations of the earth! In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “Hurry and Tell Him” — Barney E. Warren. Meditation Verse: Isaiah 37:35. |