2 Chronicles 32:20
For this cause Hezekiah the king, and the Prophet Isaiah the sonne of Amoz, prayed and cryed to heauen. 2 Chronicles 32:20 (KJV)
Historical Context: 2 Chronicles 32:20 takes place during the reign of King Hezekiah in Judah. At this time, the powerful Assyrian empire, under the leadership of King Sennacherib, was threatening to invade Jerusalem and conquer the land. Sennacherib had already captured several fortified cities of Judah and sent his officials to deliver a message of intimidation to Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem.
The Threatened Invasion:
In 2 Chronicles 32:9-19 we see the Assyrian officials mocking the God of Israel, claiming that no nation or gods were able to withstand the might of the Assyrian army. They attempted to instill fear and doubt among the people of Jerusalem, undermining their confidence in their king and their faith in God.
Hezekiah’s Response:
In the face of this imminent threat, King Hezekiah did not rely solely on his own strength or military strategies. Instead, he turned to the Lord and sought divine intervention. Hezekiah, along with the prophet Isaiah, cried out to heaven in prayer. This act demonstrates his faith and trust in God’s power to deliver and protect His people.
Prayer as a Weapon:
Hezekiah’s prayer serves as a reminder of the power of prayer and the importance of seeking God’s help in times of trouble. He did not attempt to face the Assyrian army in his own strength but acknowledged his dependence on God. His prayer was a plea for divine intervention, acknowledging God’s sovereignty and seeking His deliverance from the impending threat.
Trusting in God:
Through Hezekiah’s prayer, we see his unwavering trust in God’s ability to save. Despite the overwhelming odds and the boastful claims of the Assyrians, Hezekiah chose to place his trust in the Almighty God. He knew that victory could only come through the Lord’s intervention, and he fervently sought His favor.
God’s Response:
In the following verses (2 Chronicles 32:21-23) we see how God responded to Hezekiah’s prayer. The Lord sent an angel who struck down a vast number of the Assyrian soldiers, causing King Sennacherib to retreat in humiliation. God displayed His power and faithfulness, delivering His people from the threat of destruction.
