2 Kings-18
Faithful in Difficulties: A Devotional Study on 2 Kings 18
Introduction
2 Kings 18 details a time in history when Hezekiah, King of Judah, encountered seemingly insurmountable difficulties. This chapter brings to light profound lessons in trust, obedience, and faith, which are still relevant in our lives today.
Section 1: The Arrival of the Assyrian Army (2 Kings 18:1-7)
Devotional Thought: When the Assyrian army invaded Judah, Hezekiah believed that the situation was hopeless. His panic was so intense that he stopped offering traditional worship and refused to consume food. Yet, Hezekiah's belief did not match the assurance that Isaiah, the prophet of God, brought to him. In our moments of despair, we must turn to God's steadfast promises instead of panicked thoughts that may deter us from His assurance.
Reflection Questions:
- How often have we fallen into panic instead of trusting God's promises?
- How can faithfulness lead us to trust God's promises over our despairing thoughts?
Section 2: The Sign from God (2 Kings 18:8-13)
Devotional Thought: God's promise to Hezekiah was so explicit that He made an incredible sign- the shadows on the sundial went backward instead of forward, as a sign that Hezekiah should trust Him. This account is a remarkable illustration of the power and faithfulness of God to deliver His promises, even in seemingly hopeless circumstances. Today, let's look at God's Word, searching for His explicit promise for us.
Reflection Questions:
- How often do we miss seeing God's explicit promises because we don't know where to look?
- How, with a sincere spirit, can we search for God's explicit promises to us?
Section 3: The Assyrian Response (2 Kings 18:14-19)
Devotional Thought: The king of Assyria mocked Hezekiah, ridiculing him for his blind trust in God. Instead, the king of Assyria advised Hezekiah to embrace surrender. When we face difficulties, let's remember that those difficulty cannot extinguish the unwavering faithfulness of God.
Reflection Questions:
- How often do we forget that our faithfulness to God could confound our oppressor's plan against us?
- How can we respond to the mockers and consider God's faithfulness as a source of strength?
Section 4: Hezekiah's Praise (2 Kings 18:20)
Devotional Thought: Hezekiah rejoiced in the Lord's faithfulness, acknowledging His creative and sovereign power. May we follow Hezekiah's example and rejoice in the Lord!
Reflection Questions:
- Are we apprised of God's creative and sovereign power, which brought a halt to the Assyrian army's assault?
- How can we experience Hezekiah's rejoicing in God's creative and sovereign power?
Conclusion:
2 Kings chapter 18 serves as a testimony to God's faithfulness, showing us a wonderful perspective that can help us facing difficult situations. As we encounter difficulties, may we remember that faithfulness can lead us to trust God's promises, experience His explicit promises, confound our oppressors' plans, and rejoice in His creative and sovereign power. Let's acknowledge His faithfulness always, celebrating it daily. Hallelujah!