King Hezekiah, a young man who became king at the age of twenty-five was described as a man who pleased God in all of his doings just like his ancestor David – II Kings 18:1-3. He was likened or put side by side with King David- the man after God’s heart, I personally think that was remarkable and quite significant. Even more significant given that some kings that ruled before him were not as sold out in their relationship with God. The Bible goes on to tell us that this king trusted God so much, was faithful in all of his commitments to God, and obeyed God’s instructions and for this, his reward was God’s presence. God was with him and he was successful, so does the bible tell us- II Kings 18:5-7
These records are not given to us for mere knowing sake, the Holy Spirit inspired the writers of God’s word so that we the readers could learn from the victories of men and women of faith, draw strength, increase in faith, and ultimately see and know God through the pages of the bible. Reading King Hezekiah’s account in II Kings 19 more or less reinforced some of the things God was pointing me to this week. He more or less was reminding me not to trivialize asking Him for help no matter how small the task or need may look.
II Kings 19 opens up with the receipt of a bad report by King Hezekiah and his response was immediately retreat to the Lord’s presence for succor, comfort, strength, and instruction. This action of his shows us his reliance on God and the depth of his relationship with God. God was his everything and he filled God in about everything happening with him . Fast forward to somewhere down the line in chapter 19, king Sennacherib sent him a threat letter, one that probably left him feeling discouraged or dismayed. But instead of sulk or ponder on the content of the letter, king Hezekiah took the letter up to his father. The bible tells us this:
after Hezekiah received the letter from the messengers, he read it, he went up to the Lord’s temple and spread it out before the Lord. And he prayed he prayed before the Lord
II Kings 19:14-15
In my opinion, king Hezekiah’s action shows us the depth of intimacy with the father. He was so close to the father and dependent on him that his only resort was God. He did not second guess it, and I am more than convinced that the Lord has us reading about this dimension of king Hezekiah because He wants us to be that close and dependent on Him. God can do all things, He is more than happy to help us, to unburden the burdens that we carry. The hymn writer wrote, “what needless pains we bear, only because we do not carry it to God in prayer”. Jesus tells us, “We should come to Him all who are weary and burdened and He will give us rest“- Matthew 11:28. He goes ahead to tell us that his yoke is easy, contrary to some beliefs that it is somewhat hard to be a follower or friend of Jesus. There is actually so much freedom and ease walking and being yoked with Jesus.
Therefore, my dear friend who may be burdened with a thing or things – tell it to Jesus. He listens, He cares and He answers. King Hezekiah’s story doesn’t end at just spreading the letter to the Lord to pray about it. God heard him and sent him his word of assurance and victory through the prophet Isaiah. And true to God’s word, king Hezekiah received his victory. And as you decide to tell it all to Jesus, I also implore you to be intentional about your walk with Him- be intentional about it. Make time to know God for yourself, walk with Him close and deeply that you become so dependent on Him like king Hezekiah.
Have a burden free, yoked to Jesus week in Jesus’ name. Amen.