This chapter, which parallels 2 Ki 18:13-37, describes a siege on Judah by the king of Assyria. His spokesperson, called titled “the Rabshakeh”, mocks the God of Israel, casts doubt on King Hezekiah, and taunts the people in an attempt to goad their surrender.
” ‘Beware lest Hezekiah mislead you by saying, “The Lord will deliver us.” Has any of the gods of the nations delivered his land out of the hand of the king of Assyria? Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad? Where are the gods of Sepharvaim? Have they delivered Samaria out of my hand? Who among all the gods of these lands have delivered their lands out of my hand, that the Lord should deliver Jerusalem out of my hand?’ ” (v18-20)
Mockers are going to mock. God warns us that there are scoffers in this world that will mock Him and His people (us). These doubt-casters are essentially Satan’s spokespeople, questioning God’s power and promises in an attempt to drive a wedge between us and God.
It’s so easy to fall into the trap of doubt. Thankfully, doubt itself is not a sin. We can have doubts which are momentary lapses of confidence in God’s promises and/or power. Where we run into trouble is if we give credence to our doubts, and allow them to weaken or destroy our faith. It’s entirely possible our doubts stemmed from another Christ follower, which makes it even easier for us to distrust God.
I encourage us to be open and up front with God about our doubts. If we talk to Him about our doubts, He will gladly help us work through those before they become complete distrust. If doubts have progressed and we stop trusting God, even in a single area, God will help us rebuild that trust if we’re willing to let Him. Ideally we should address our doubts and shaken faith with God quickly, otherwise we risk long-term damage to relationships with God and His children.
Father God, our trustworthy and reliable Lord, we praise Your steadfast and holy name. Though Satan tried hard to make Jesus doubt You, His faith was never deterred. May we have enough faith to never completely sever our relationship with You, and seek to restore our faith when we struggle with doubt. Please quell any fears and doubts that may arise, especially if a sibling in Christ causes us to stumble. We seek to honor, obey and trust You, every moment of every day, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training