Hezekiah, the son of Ahaz, was the 13th king of Judah and reigned from approximately 715 to 686 BC. His reign is noted for significant religious reforms and preparations that strengthened the kingdom both spiritually and militarily. Hezekiah's preparations are particularly highlighted in the context of the impending Assyrian threat under King Sennacherib.

Religious Reforms

Hezekiah is renowned for his zealous efforts to restore true worship in Judah, as recorded in 2 Kings 18:3-6 and 2 Chronicles 29-31. He began his reign by reopening the doors of the Temple, which his father Ahaz had closed, and cleansing it from idolatrous practices. Hezekiah's reforms included the removal of high places, breaking down sacred pillars, cutting down Asherah poles, and destroying the bronze serpent that Moses had made, which had become an object of idolatry (2 Kings 18:4). Hezekiah's commitment to the LORD is emphasized in 2 Kings 18:5, which states, "He trusted in the LORD, the God of Israel; there was no one like him among all the kings of Judah, either before him or after him."

Hezekiah also reinstated the Passover, inviting all Israel and Judah to participate, as detailed in 2 Chronicles 30. This event was significant in uniting the people in worship and turning them back to the LORD.

Military and Infrastructure Preparations

Anticipating the Assyrian invasion, Hezekiah undertook extensive military preparations. One of his most notable projects was the construction of the Siloam Tunnel, an engineering marvel that redirected water from the Gihon Spring into the city of Jerusalem. This ensured a steady water supply during a siege, as described in 2 Chronicles 32:30: "It was Hezekiah who blocked the upper outlet of the waters of the Gihon spring and channeled them down to the west side of the City of David."

Hezekiah also fortified Jerusalem by repairing and expanding the city walls, building towers, and constructing a second wall (2 Chronicles 32:5). He organized the army, appointing military officers and providing them with weapons and shields (2 Chronicles 32:6).

Diplomatic and Economic Measures

Hezekiah's preparations extended to diplomatic and economic measures. He sought alliances with neighboring nations, although the Bible records that he ultimately relied on the LORD for deliverance from Assyria. Hezekiah's wealth and prosperity are noted in 2 Chronicles 32:27-29, which describe his treasuries, storehouses, and livestock.

Spiritual Leadership and Trust in God

Despite the formidable Assyrian threat, Hezekiah's leadership was marked by his unwavering trust in God. When Sennacherib's forces besieged Jerusalem, Hezekiah sought the counsel of the prophet Isaiah and prayed earnestly for divine intervention (2 Kings 19:1-4, 14-19). The LORD's response was decisive, as recorded in 2 Kings 19:35: "That night the angel of the LORD went out and struck down 185,000 men in the camp of the Assyrians."

Hezekiah's preparations, both practical and spiritual, underscore his role as a reformer and a leader who sought to align his kingdom with the will of God. His reign is a testament to the power of faith and obedience in the face of overwhelming odds.