He was an otherwise great guy. In fact, among the kings of Judah, he’s listed as one of the few who actually “did what was right in the eyes of the Lord” (2 Kings 18:3). So, his response in one particular situation was pretty shocking.
That situation involved a coming invasion of Judah. The devastation of Judah was going to be extensive. Listen to the way Isaiah described it to King Hezekiah:
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.” (2 Kings 20:17-18, ESV)
Isaiah’s prophesy was very clear – there was going to be total defeat and devastation for Judah. Everything the king’s ancestors had gained would be stolen away. Not only that, the king’s own sons would be castrated and carried off as captives into Babylon. Heartbreaking. Yet, listen to Hezekiah’s response:
“The word of the Lord that you have spoken is good.” For he thought, “Why not, if there will be peace and security in my days?” (v.19)
Told you it was pretty shocking. Downright self-centered and shortsighted isn’t it?! But before we point fingers, I think Hezekiah speaks for many people. As long as things are going well for us personally, we don’t worry much about the hardships others are facing, or the calamity awaiting future generations. Unfortunately, that’s self-centered and shortsighted as well.
Have you allowed your own personal comfort to callous you to the needs of others? How might you demonstrate concern for future generations? –Dave
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