Isaiah 38:7

And this shall be a sign unto thee from the Lord, that the Lord will do this thing that he hath spoken;

Isaiah 38:7 (KJV)

Context

King Hezekiah of Judah was terminally ill, and the prophet Isaiah had told him to set his house in order. Hezekiah prayed earnestly, and the Lord heard him, promising healing and fifteen more years of life. In Isaiah 38:7, Isaiah declares that the Lord will give Hezekiah a sign to confirm this promise. The sign follows in the next verse: the shadow on the sundial of Ahaz will go back ten degrees.

Meaning

The verse centers on the certainty of God’s word. The sign is not for public spectacle but for Hezekiah’s personal assurance. It confirms that the Lord will do what He has spoken. This shows God’s compassion in meeting His servant’s weakness and His willingness to strengthen faith through tangible evidence.

Biblical connections

The sign of the sundial connects to God’s sovereign power over creation, as seen in Joshua 10:12-14, where the sun stood still. Both events demonstrate that the Creator can alter natural order to fulfill His purposes. The promise of healing also echoes the Lord’s covenant faithfulness to those who trust Him.

Application

Readers should trust that God’s promises are reliable, even when circumstances seem dire. Like Hezekiah, believers may seek confirmation from the Lord, and He graciously provides assurance in ways suited to their need. The passage encourages earnest prayer and confidence that God hears and answers.

Reflection

God’s sign to Hezekiah reminds us that He is faithful to perform what He has spoken. We can rest in His word, knowing that He is able to do what He has promised.