At that time Merodach-baladan the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent envoys with letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he heard that he had been sick and had recovered. And Hezekiah welcomed them gladly. And he showed them his treasure house, the silver, the gold, the spices, the precious oil, his whole armory, all that was found in his storehouses. There was nothing in his house or in all his realm that Hezekiah did not show them. Then Isaiah the prophet came to King Hezekiah, and said to him, “What did these men say? And from where did they come to you?” Hezekiah said, “They have come to me from a far country, from Babylon.” He said, “What have they seen in your house?” Hezekiah answered, “They have seen all that is in my house. There is nothing in my storehouses that I did not show them.” Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, “Hear the word of the Lord of hosts: Behold, the days are coming, when all that is in your house, and that which your fathers have stored up till this day, shall be carried to Babylon. Nothing shall be left, says the Lord. And some of your own sons, who will come from you, whom you will father, shall be taken away, and they shall be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.” Then Hezekiah said to Isaiah, “The word of the Lord that you have spoken is good.” For he thought, “There will be peace and security in my days.”

Isaiah 39:1-8

I have been stuck on this text for over a month, and I believe there are valuable lessons for us to learn within this text. Chapter 39 of Isaiah provides an intriguing account that offers valuable insights into the consequences of pride and the importance of trusting God.

This story takes place in the 8th century BC during the reign of King Hezekiah, and the prophetic ministry of Isaiah. This same story is recorded in 2 Kings 20. When looking at the kings of Judah in the time of the Divided Kingdom, Hezekiah was one of the few that stood out for being identified as righteous, as he sought to bring about spiritual reforms and turn the nation back to God. He removed idols, reinstated proper worship in the temple, and encouraged the people to follow God’s commandments.

Most of us probably think of Babylon as a mighty kingdom, and the many references to it in both the Old and New Testament. It was known for its advanced civilization, military strength, and ambition for expansion. In the context of Isaiah 39, it is important to understand that Babylon was beginning to assert its influence in the region, challenging the existing power dynamics dominated by Assyria. Babylon sought to establish alliances and diplomatic relations with other nations, including Judah, as part of its broader geopolitical strategy.

During Hezekiah’s reign, he fell gravely ill but was miraculously healed by God in response to his prayers (Isaiah 38). This miraculous healing understandably gained attention, and Babylon, which saw Judah as a potential ally or vassal state, sent envoys to congratulate and establish diplomatic relations with King Hezekiah. This is where our focus picks up in the story of Hezekiah.

And Hezekiah welcomed them gladly. And he showed them his treasure house, the silver, the gold, the spices, the precious oil, his whole armory, all that was found in his storehouses. There was nothing in his house or in all his realm that Hezekiah did not show them.

Isaiah 39:2

The Babylonian envoy has arrived, and King Hezekiah gives a warm welcome. It was not uncommon for ancient kings to showcase their wealth and power to visiting envoys or dignitaries from other nations. Such displays of wealth and strength were often intended to impress and demonstrate the ruler’s prestige, grandeur, and the strength of their kingdom. In the ancient world, the wealth and possessions of a king were seen as symbols of his power and influence. By showcasing their treasures, including precious metals, jewels, fine textiles, and other valuable goods, kings aimed to convey their wealth, prosperity, and the abundance of their kingdom. In addition, the display of military might, such as armaments, weaponry, and the size of the army, was another way for rulers to assert their strength and intimidate potential adversaries.

In the specific case of Hezekiah here, his display of wealth and military might to the Babylonian envoys can be seen as a strategic and diplomatic gesture, potentially aiming to solidify a favorable relationship with Babylon or deter any hostile intentions from them. While this was customary practice in ancient times, it was not reflective of a righteous king of God’s people. Instead of seeking God’s guidance, Hezekiah made a grave mistake by proudly displaying all his treasures and military might to the Babylonian envoys. His decision revealed a lack of discernment and an overemphasis on earthly possessions, fame, and power.

It wasn’t long for the Prophet Isaiah to take notice and come question King Hezekiah.

Then Isaiah the prophet came to King Hezekiah, and said to him, “What did these men say? And from where did they come to you?” Hezekiah said, “They have come to me from a far country, from Babylon.”

Isaiah 39:3

What is interesting here is that Isaiah asks King Hezekiah two very specific questions. What did they say, and where they came from. However, Hezekiah only answers the second question. While Isaiah does not seem to press him further on the first questions, I find it interesting that Hezekiah neglected to answer it.

After Hezekiah tells him the envoy came from Babylon, Isaiah asks him a third question. This gets to the meat of the story, as Hezekiah reveals to Isaiah that nothing was hidden from the Babylonians. Hezekiah showed them everything, from the wealth of the nation to its military might. He proudly displayed his treasures and military strength to them, revealing his vulnerability and lack of discernment.

What follows next is a pronouncement of judgement from God, through the Prophet Isaiah.

Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, “Hear the word of the Lord of hosts: Behold, the days are coming, when all that is in your house, and that which your fathers have stored up till this day, shall be carried to Babylon. Nothing shall be left, says the Lord. And some of your own sons, who will come from you, whom you will father, shall be taken away, and they shall be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.”

Isaiah 39:5-7

Isaiah proclaims to King Hezekiah what would eventually be the demise of him and God’s people as the nation of Judah. Because of his pride and failure to trust in God, the treasures and wealth accumulated during his reign will be plundered by Babylon. Additionally, some of his descendants will be taken captive and serve in the palace of the Babylonian king as eunuchs.

His response to this prophetic news is at first confusing until you consider what was evident already, a lack of discernment and wisdom, and a great deal of pride.

Then Hezekiah said to Isaiah, “The word of the Lord that you have spoken is good.” For he thought, “There will be peace and security in my days.”

Isaiah 39:8

Hezekiah failed to see the long-term implications of his decisions in the present. How showing the wealth and strength of Judah to Babylon gave them insight into the nations vulnerabilities, weaknesses, wealth, and his own personal poor leadership qualities.

The story of Hezekiah is one that shows God’s great hand of mercy through Hezekiah’s healing, while also showing us how quickly we can loose sight of what’s truly important. What we see happen in the story of Hezekiah is a wealth of lessons for us today. I believe there are four practical applications from Hezekiah’s life that will change your life.

Beware of Pride

Hezekiah’s downfall was his pride in displaying his wealth and power. It serves as a reminder to us that pride can blind us to our need for God and cause us to rely on our own accomplishments and possessions. Proverbs 11:2 tells us “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.” Proverbs 16:18 drives home the principle even more saying “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” Pride clearly leads to destruction.

When speaking to the crowds of people after addressing the Pharisees, Jesus lists pride as one of the things that defiles a person from within.

For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”

Mark 7:21-23

Humility and dependence on God should be the guiding principles in our lives. Recognizing the pitfalls of pride in our own lives is crucial. It requires a posture of humility, acknowledging that everything we have comes from God and that we are dependent on Him for our well-being and success. It means embracing a mindset that seeks God’s guidance, surrendering our own desires and plans to align with His will.

By cultivating humility and a deep awareness of our need for God, we can guard against the dangers of pride. This involves regularly examining our hearts and motives, evaluating our priorities, and intentionally placing our trust in God rather than in our own accomplishments or possessions. In doing so, we open ourselves to the wisdom, grace, and blessings that come from a humble reliance on our Creator.

Prioritize Eternal Values

Hezekiah’s focus on earthly treasures proved to be futile. He was proud of what he had, and he flaunted it in an attempt to impress the people that would eventually become the captors of the nation he was entrusted to lead. Paul provides valuable guidance regarding our pursuits and priorities. He warns us to focus our pursuits on things that are holy and of God.

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs. But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness.

1 Timothy 6:10-11

We should learn from Hexekiah’s mistake and Paul’s instruction, and prioritize eternal values such as faith, love, and righteousness. Material possessions are a temporary thing, even a blessing, but can often distract us from pursuing a meaningful relationship with God. Following Jesus requires us to let go of what we hold closest, to pick up our cross daily. It’s a process of self-denial in pursuit of holiness.

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

Colossians 3:1-2

Earthly possessions and achievements are temporary and can distract us from our ultimate purpose: to seek and serve God. While it is not inherently wrong to have possessions or wealth, our focus should be on using these resources for God’s glory, showing generosity, and pursuing holiness rather than being consumed by the pursuit of material gain.

Trust in God’s Guidance

Hezekiah’s failure to consult God before displaying his treasures highlights the importance of seeking God’s divine guidance in every aspect of our lives. Trusting in God’s wisdom and guidance ensures that our decisions align with His will and purpose. God desires to be involved in every area of our lives, both big and small. He longs for us to approach Him with our plans, ambitions, and desires, seeking His wisdom and direction. When we do this, we acknowledge our reliance on Him and recognize that His plans are higher and wiser than our own.

King Solomon encapsulates this truth so well in his writing of Proverbs.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
    and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
    and he will make straight your paths.

Proverbs 3:5-6

When we trust in God wholeheartedly and acknowledge Him in all aspects of our lives, we open ourselves to His guidance and leading. Trusting in God wholeheartedly means placing our confidence in His character, faithfulness, and promises. It involves relinquishing control and submitting our plans, dreams, and desires to His loving care. By acknowledging Him in every area of our lives, we invite Him to be the guiding force and the centerpiece of our decisions. He is not only concerned with the big life-altering decisions but also the everyday choices and circumstances we face. As we acknowledge Him, we invite Him into the details, seeking His wisdom, guidance, and discernment.

Trusting in God wholeheartedly doesn’t mean we won’t face challenges or difficulties. However, it means we have an unwavering confidence that God is with us, leading us through every situation.

Seeking God’s divine guidance involves spending time in prayer, studying God’s Word, and cultivating a sensitivity to His voice through the Holy Spirit. It means surrendering our desires and preferences to align with His perfect will. God delights in revealing His plans and purposes to those who seek Him diligently.

In seeking God’s guidance, we can avoid the perils of relying solely on our limited understanding and human wisdom. Hezekiah’s lack of consultation with God led to unforeseen consequences and challenges. In contrast, when we prioritize seeking God’s guidance, we position ourselves to make decisions that align with His will, experience His peace, and walk in His favor.

Consider the Consequences of Our Actions

Hezekiah’s prideful actions had far-reaching consequences that affected not only himself but also future generations. This serves as a powerful reminder that our choices and actions can have ripple effects beyond our immediate circumstances, and underscores the importance of considering the potential consequences before making decisions.

Every day we have choices, and our choices have the power to shape our lives and the lives of those around us. They can impact our relationships, our careers, our spiritual well-being, and even the legacy we leave behind. It is crucial to recognize that our decisions are not made in isolation but have the potential to reverberate through time.

Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.

Galatians 6:7-8

What we do in life matters. How we do it matters. This principle Paul is communicating to us here applies not only to our actions but also to the attitudes and motivations behind them. If we sow pride, arrogance, and self-centeredness, we can expect to reap the negative consequences that come with them. On the other hand, when we sow to the Spirit, meaning when we align our lives with the guidance and leading of the Holy Spirit, we will reap eternal life. This points to the positive outcomes and blessings that result from a life lived in submission to God’s will, characterized by righteousness, obedience, and a pursuit of His Kingdom.

Considering the potential consequences of our decisions involves seeking wisdom from God, seeking counsel from trusted Godly spiritual leaders, and evaluating our choices through the lens of God’s Word. It means recognizing that our actions carry weight and have implications for ourselves and future generations.

It is essential to cultivate a mindset of stewardship, recognizing that our lives and resources are entrusted to us by God. We are called to use them wisely and with an understanding of their long-term impact. This requires humility, discernment, and a willingness to surrender our own desires for the greater good.

What we do today has a lasting impact tomorrow.

As I reflect on these practical applications, I want to be intentional in living them out. I want to cultivate humility in my life, seeking to bring God glory rather than myself. I want to invest in the things that eternally matter and align my life every day with God’s values. I want to trust in God’s sovereign guidance, and seek His wisdom in every decision I make. I want to be mindful of the consequences of my actions as I strive to make choices that reflect a heart fully surrendered to God.

By applying these lessons from King Hezekiah’s life, we can navigate our lives with wisdom, faith, and a steadfast commitment to living in alignment with God’s will and purpose. May our lives be transformed as we strive to walk humbly, prioritize eternal values, seek God’s guidance, and carefully consider the consequences of our actions.