2 Chronicles 32:20

In response, King Hezekiah and the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz cried out to heaven in prayer,

Study Bible

So King Hezekiah
King Hezekiah was one of the most righteous kings of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to restore proper worship in the temple. His reign is marked by a return to the worship of Yahweh and a rejection of idolatry. Historically, Hezekiah's leadership during the Assyrian siege is significant, as he fortified Jerusalem and sought divine intervention rather than relying solely on military might. His actions reflect a deep trust in God, setting an example of godly leadership.

and the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz
Isaiah, a major prophet in the Hebrew Bible, played a crucial role during Hezekiah's reign. His prophecies and counsel were instrumental in guiding the king and the people of Judah. The mention of Isaiah as "son of Amoz" roots him in a specific historical and familial context, emphasizing his legitimacy and authority as a prophet. Isaiah's partnership with Hezekiah highlights the importance of spiritual guidance and prophetic insight in times of national crisis.

cried out to heaven
The phrase "cried out to heaven" signifies a desperate and earnest plea for divine intervention. In the Hebrew context, crying out to heaven implies a recognition of God's sovereignty and power over earthly affairs. It is an act of humility and dependence, acknowledging that human efforts alone are insufficient. This phrase underscores the importance of prayer as a means of seeking God's help and guidance, especially in dire circumstances.

in prayer
Prayer is a central theme in the Bible, serving as a means of communication with God. In this context, Hezekiah and Isaiah's prayer is an act of faith, demonstrating their reliance on God rather than human strength or alliances. The Hebrew word for prayer, "tefillah," encompasses not just requests but also praise, confession, and thanksgiving. This highlights the multifaceted nature of prayer as a relationship with God, not merely a list of petitions.

about this
The phrase "about this" refers to the specific crisis facing Judah—the Assyrian threat led by King Sennacherib. This context is crucial, as it shows that prayer is not abstract but deeply connected to the realities of life. Hezekiah and Isaiah's prayer was focused and intentional, addressing the immediate danger and seeking God's deliverance. This teaches believers the importance of bringing specific concerns before God, trusting in His power to intervene in tangible ways.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Hezekiah
The 13th king of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and religious reforms. He is a central figure in this passage, demonstrating reliance on God in times of crisis.

2. Prophet Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, son of Amoz, who served as a spiritual advisor to King Hezekiah. His role in this event highlights the importance of prophetic guidance and intercession.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, under siege by the Assyrian king Sennacherib. This event underscores the city's significance as a spiritual and political center.

4. Assyrian Threat
The Assyrian army, led by King Sennacherib, posed a significant threat to Judah, prompting Hezekiah and Isaiah to seek divine intervention.

5. Prayer to Heaven
The act of Hezekiah and Isaiah crying out to God in prayer, demonstrating their dependence on divine help rather than solely on military might.

Teaching Points

The Power of Prayer
Hezekiah and Isaiah's response to the Assyrian threat was to pray. This teaches us the importance of turning to God in times of crisis, trusting in His power and sovereignty.

Leadership and Faith
Hezekiah's leadership was marked by faith and reliance on God. As leaders, whether in families, churches, or communities, we should model this dependence on God.

Prophetic Guidance
Isaiah's involvement underscores the value of seeking and heeding godly counsel. We should seek wisdom from those who are spiritually mature and grounded in Scripture.

God's Sovereignty in Deliverance
The deliverance of Jerusalem was a testament to God's control over nations and history. We can trust that God is sovereign over our circumstances and will act according to His will.

Community in Prayer
The joint prayer of Hezekiah and Isaiah highlights the strength found in communal prayer. We should not underestimate the power of praying together with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat challenge or inspire your own approach to crises in your life?

2. In what ways can you incorporate the practice of seeking godly counsel, as Hezekiah did with Isaiah, into your decision-making processes?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's deliverance in your life. How can this passage encourage you to trust in God's sovereignty in current or future challenges?

4. How can the example of communal prayer between Hezekiah and Isaiah influence your participation in prayer groups or church prayer meetings?

5. Considering the power of prayer demonstrated in this passage, what steps can you take to deepen your personal prayer life and reliance on God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 19
This chapter provides a parallel account of the same events, offering additional details about Hezekiah's prayer and God's response.

Isaiah 37
Another parallel account that emphasizes the role of Isaiah and the power of prayer in delivering Jerusalem from the Assyrian threat.

Philippians 4:6-7
Encourages believers to present their requests to God through prayer and supplication, promising peace in return, similar to Hezekiah's reliance on prayer.

James 5:16
Highlights the power of righteous prayer, which is exemplified by Hezekiah and Isaiah's intercession.