In this chapter the King of Babylon sends an envoy to King Hezekiah. He shows them the full extent of Israel’s wealth and military. Isaiah then confronts Hezekiah.
“Then Isaiah said… “Hear the word of the Lord of hosts: …all that is in your house, and that which your fathers have stored up till this day, shall be carried to Babylon… And some of your own sons… shall be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.’ Then Hezekiah said… ‘The word of the Lord that you have spoken is good.’ For he thought, ‘There will be peace and security in my days.’ ” (v5-8 abr)
Good news can sometimes be in the ear of the beholder. Hezekiah, who was generally a God-honoring king, kind of ends poorly. He gives valuable intel to Babylon, who will one day destroy Jerusalem (including the temple), steal everything, and take the people as slaves. Yet this tragic prophesy doesn’t seem to phase the king, who essentially thinks to himself “this is good news because it’s not in my reign”.
Have we ever thought to ourselves “it’s okay that I do this, because I won’t be affected”, not stopping to care that someone else (eg. the next generation) could be severely and adversely affected? I realize we don’t normally have the future of an entire nation in our hands, however, we do have influence over multiple people and their lives, especially if we are a caregiver or leader.
Sin, especially pride, is extremely dangerous and should not be toyed with. Hezekiah’s pride contributed to Israel’s future captivity. Hezekiah seemed to forget that we will all be held accountable for our sin, especially when we cause others to suffer. Thankfully, forgiveness is available through the blood of Jesus, and the Spirit can help us avoid these sins in the first place. I suggest we seek God’s help in minimizing the (future) harm we cause others, even if there isn’t a direct/immediate affect on us (ei. it seems harmless).
Father God, our Righteous and Just Lord, You condemn all sin, especially that which causes harm to others. Father please forgive our sin, and help us to obey You. Spirit please guide us in Your ways, that we may be more obedient and less prone to sin. Jesus please love others through us in such a way that we would rather make personal sacrifices, than harm another person. We ask You to do a work in us our hearts, humbling any pride, so You can love our neighbors work through us. Amen.
~ Conqueror in Training