2 Chronicles 29:10

Now it is in my heart to make a covenant with the LORD, the God of Israel, so that His fierce anger will turn away from us.

Study Bible

Now it is in my heart
This phrase indicates a deep, personal conviction and commitment. In Hebrew, the word for "heart" is "לֵב" (lev), which often signifies the center of one's being, encompassing mind, will, and emotions. King Hezekiah's declaration reflects a sincere and earnest desire to initiate change. It underscores the importance of internal motivation in spiritual renewal, suggesting that true reform begins within the heart, aligning with the biblical principle that God desires heartfelt devotion over mere ritual (1 Samuel 16:7).

to make a covenant
The concept of a covenant, or "בְּרִית" (berit) in Hebrew, is foundational in the Bible, representing a solemn agreement or promise between God and His people. Covenants in the biblical context are not merely contracts but sacred commitments that involve mutual obligations. Hezekiah's intention to renew the covenant signifies a return to faithfulness and obedience to God, reminiscent of the covenants made with Abraham, Moses, and David. This act of covenant renewal is a call to restore the broken relationship with God, emphasizing the need for repentance and recommitment to His laws.

with the LORD, the God of Israel
The use of "LORD" (YHWH) highlights the personal name of God, denoting His eternal, self-existent nature and His covenantal relationship with Israel. "The God of Israel" reaffirms God's unique and chosen relationship with the nation of Israel. This phrase serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the special status of Israel as His people. It calls the Israelites to remember their identity and purpose as a nation set apart to worship and serve the one true God, reinforcing the call to return to Him wholeheartedly.

so that His fierce anger
The term "fierce anger" reflects God's righteous indignation against sin and unfaithfulness. In Hebrew, "anger" is "אַף" (aph), often associated with the imagery of a flaring nostril, symbolizing intense emotion. God's anger is not capricious but a just response to the people's idolatry and disobedience. This phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, yet it also underscores His desire for repentance and reconciliation, as His anger is not His final word.

will turn away from us
The hope that God's anger "will turn away" is rooted in the Hebrew concept of "שׁוּב" (shuv), meaning to return or repent. This reflects the biblical theme of God's willingness to forgive and restore those who genuinely seek Him. Hezekiah's plea is an appeal to God's mercy and grace, recognizing that divine forgiveness is available to those who humble themselves and seek to restore their relationship with Him. It is an invitation to experience God's compassion and the restoration of peace and blessing upon the nation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The king of Judah who initiated religious reforms to restore proper worship of Yahweh. He is known for his faithfulness and desire to lead the nation back to God.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Hezekiah reigned. At this time, Judah was experiencing spiritual decline due to previous kings' idolatry.

3. The Temple in Jerusalem
The central place of worship for the Israelites, which had been neglected and defiled by previous rulers. Hezekiah sought to restore it to its rightful state.

4. Covenant
A solemn agreement between God and His people. Hezekiah's desire to renew the covenant signifies a return to faithfulness and obedience to God's laws.

5. The LORD, the God of Israel
The one true God whom Hezekiah seeks to honor and appease through the renewal of the covenant.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Leadership in Spiritual Renewal
Hezekiah's leadership demonstrates the impact a godly leader can have on a nation. Leaders today, whether in the church or community, should strive to guide others toward righteousness.

The Necessity of Covenant Renewal
Just as Hezekiah sought to renew the covenant with God, believers are called to regularly renew their commitment to God, ensuring their lives align with His will.

Turning Away God's Anger
Hezekiah's actions remind us that repentance and obedience can turn away God's righteous anger. This is a call to examine our lives and remove anything that displeases God.

The Role of the Heart in Worship
Hezekiah's desire to make a covenant "in my heart" underscores the importance of heartfelt devotion in our relationship with God, beyond mere external rituals.

Restoration of True Worship
The restoration of the temple signifies the need to restore true worship in our lives, focusing on God and removing idols that distract us from Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's leadership in 2 Chronicles 29:10 inspire you to influence others toward spiritual renewal in your own context?

2. In what ways can you personally renew your covenant with God, ensuring that your heart is fully devoted to Him?

3. Reflect on areas of your life where you might be experiencing God's discipline. How can repentance and obedience help turn away His anger?

4. What "idols" or distractions might be hindering your worship of God, and how can you remove them to restore true worship?

5. How does the concept of covenant in 2 Chronicles 29:10 connect with the New Covenant established through Jesus Christ, and what practical implications does this have for your daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 18
Provides a parallel account of Hezekiah's reign and reforms, emphasizing his trust in the Lord and his efforts to remove idolatry.

Deuteronomy 29
Discusses the covenant between God and Israel, highlighting the blessings of obedience and the consequences of disobedience.

Isaiah 1
Calls for repentance and a return to true worship, similar to Hezekiah's reforms.

Psalm 51
A prayer of repentance, reflecting the heart attitude Hezekiah likely encouraged among the people.