Text: 2 Kings 18:1-37
In this Chapter, we read about Hezekiah becoming King of Judah. We have just read about Ahaz being an evil king, but here we read about the contrast with Hezekiah and why he was good. Hezekiah destroyed the places of false worship (v.4) , he destroyed the bronze serpent, which the people were worshipping (v.4, Num.21:8), he obeyed God’s Word (v.6), and he trusted and loved Yahweh (v.5). All this glorifies God and serves the people’s well-being. These are the things that the evil kings never did.
However, these are also the very things King Jesus perfectly did in His earthly ministry, from His heart; which is why we have the assurance of eternal life.
These are also the very things Church leaders must do today to build the
Kingdom. It will not be perfect; but it must be our desire and effort. Anything that is added to worship (witchdoctors, personality cults, tolerance of sin, etc.) must be removed and replaced by love, trust, and obedience to Jesus, according to Scriptures. (This story is continued in the next chapter.)
Meditate on verse 3. How are you going to apply it to your life?
My heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, I pray You help me to think, communicate and do what is right and what glorifies Your name. Amen.