Kindle Countdown Deals

Thursday

July 4th - Holy Hezekiah

Holy Hezekiah

(2 Chronicles 29:3-36; 30:1-27; 31:1-21)


Hezekiah’s Reforms

By Johann Christoph Weigel

1695


“Hezekiah was twenty-five years old when he became king,

and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-nine years.

His mother's name was Abijah

daughter of Zechariah.

He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord,

just as his father David had done.”

(2 Chronicles 29:1-2, NIV)


Among the many faithful and faithless leaders found in the annals of history of the people of God, we may read about Hezekiah of Judah. Son of Ahaz, Hezekiah was a righteous and God-fearing leader.


Hezekiah is best remembered for removing the idolatrous stones and pagan fertility idols from the region. In fact, Hezekiah even destroyed Moses’ famous bronze snake, known as Nehushtan (see Numbers 21). Apparently, the people had been burning incense to the snake (CTRL-click here for the story of the bronze snake), worshipping the relic instead of the true Ruler.


What relics do we revere?


Is it possible that we may offer adulation and adoration to any sacred objects? What religious symbols or practices might we elevate above our devotion directly to our Divine Deliverer?


Certainly, icons and altars may serve as guideposts, pointing us to God. At what point, however, can these objects become idolatrous?


God prospers the faithful.


Hezekiah sought the Lord wholeheartedly, and God blessed him for it.


Hezekiah did this throughout all Judah,

and he did what was good, right, and faithful

before the Lord his God.

And every work that he began

in the service of the house of God,

in keeping with the law and the commandments

to seek his God

[inquiring of and yearning for Him],

he did with all his heart,

and he prospered.”

(2 Chronicles 31:20-21, AMP, emphasis added)


Does God promise to prosper those who follow Him fully? Indeed, He does.


Does God guarantee material success and financial fortune? Not exactly.


However, the Lord does commit to blessing those who bless His Name. He does vow to guide, protect and provide for those who love Him. After all, is there any spot more secure than right smack in the middle of God’s Will?


Will you pray with me?


Jehovah-Jireh,

You are our Provider.

We live to honor You

And to abide in Your Presence.

Teach us to tear down

any idols in our homes

and in our hearts.

Guide us to glorify You

And to seek Your heart

All the days of our lives.

Amen.


Add to Technorati Favorites

No comments:

Post a Comment