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.”
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.
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