Today, we are looking at the second prayer of King Hezekiah. Everyone can relate to this prayer, a prayer for healing.
Hezekiah was a young man in his thirties when this illness threatened his life. Read 2 Kings 20:1-11.
When God tells someone to get their house in order for their death is soon, it seems imminent. This death sentence came from God. Hezekiah was bold to pray for healing when God had already handed him a death sentence. Hezekiah did not directly request God to heal him. Instead, his prayer was for God to remember his loyalty and obedience.
Hezekiah didn’t go to the house of the Lord as he did previously. Possibly, he was too sick, too weak, or too distraught. Both prayers were answered favorably, even though one was upon the altar and the other at home.
Why do you think Hezekiah turned his head toward the wall to pray? Many think it may have been the direction of the temple, but his reason could be simply privacy.
Hezekiah prayed, weeping bitterly. Perhaps his entire prayer was not recorded. It is possible that his prayer was brief but his spirit was praying through his tears.
Likewise, the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. (Rom. 8:26-27 NKJV)
I have been praying when the sobs come, or is it really the Spirit’s groanings? Words are not uttered, but what about weeping? Many theologians differ on this.
Use a commentary or study Bible and prayerfully consider Romans 8:26-27.
King Hezekiah’s answer came immediately. God spoke to the prophet, Isaiah before he had gone far.
In this instance, God gave Hezekiah instructions. Obedience precedes blessing. Noah was obedient by building the ark in the midst of mocking. Abraham was ready to sacrifice Isaac in obedience to God.
Where was Hezekiah directed to go on the third day?
Other than healing and adding fifteen years to Hezekiah’s life, what other two things did God promise him?
Then Isaiah gave Hezekiah a prescription, as if to demonstrate God’s blessing on medication. A lump of figs was laid on the boil.
Do you know someone who does not believe in using medicine for religious reasons? Many times, lives could be spared if they would use the prescriptions the doctors write or have the procedure the doctor recommends.
Read 1 Timothy 5:23.
As a confirmation, Hezekiah requested a sign from God. God encouraged Hezekiah with a miraculous sign. What did God do?
Personally, I seek confirmation from God, and it is never anything as wondrous as what Hezekiah witnessed. I regard it as a reassurance that I heard God correctly. It is comforting that Scripture gives us a picture of seeking confirmations. We must never be hasty concerning the direction in which God is leading. Once we receive a confirmation from God, we trust Him. Do you seek confirmations when you pray?
This sums up our study on the prayers of Hezekiah, the obedient king who sought to glorify God.
Lord, as You lead and direct our steps, help us clearly seek Your will. Help us walk obediently and be loyal followers like Hezekiah. Amen.
A Mountain of Faith 