II Chronicles 31:2-32:33
Dear RTB’ers,
Today, another two chapters covering Hezekiah, king of Judah. Yesterday was the temple repair and sacrifices, then the celebration of the Passover. Then in today’s first chapter we see more regarding the temple, this time the tithes and offerings coming to the temple from people in Jerusalem and in all of Judah. Finally we close Hezekiah with Sennacherib’s failed invasion – which is covered in greater detail in II Kings 18-19. Our Chronicler also offers only small mention of Hezekiah’s illness, which is also covered in greater detail in II Kings 20.
Hezekiah speaking as Sennacherib nears the city: Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or dismayed before the king of Assyria and all the horde that is with him, for there are more with us than with him. With him is an arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God, to help us and to fight our battles. (vv. 32:7-8a) It may not be a “horde” descending upon us, but we do have our own battles. It’s always good to remember Hezekiah’s words, Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or dismayed … but with us is the Lord our God, to help us and to fight our battles. Whatever battles we face…!
Blessings!
Fred