The Assyrian Empire had destroyed Northern Israel and now they threatened Judah, besieging the fortified cities (1). Worldly trouble comes even to those who are faithful, as King Hezekiah was. Hezekiah did his best to strengthen his land’s defenses (2-5). Best of all, he worked to strengthen his people’s spirit, speaking words that planted faith in the power of God (7-8). But the king of Assyria also attacked Judah spiritually, with words designed to destroy faith (10-19). After the preparations, all that was left for Hezekiah to do, together with the prophet Isaiah, was to pray that God himself would see and act (20).

And God did act! He miraculously annihilated the army of Assyria, completely saving Judah, and he passed judgment on the Assyrian king (21). This is the reward of praying faith, and it parallels the personal salvation we receive when we ask Jesus. No matter how humanly capable we are, the arm of flesh is so limited. The only way to live in this world is to do our best and then pray about everything, depending on God. To do so brings true victory!
Application: Father, thank you for the full salvation you bring to those who rely on you. Help me face all troubles in my life with the kind of faith Hezekiah had. Help me also teach others to rely on God.
One Word: The Lord saves