2 Chronicles 32:24

In those days Hezekiah became mortally ill. So he prayed to the LORD, who spoke to him and gave him a sign.

Study Bible

In those days Hezekiah became mortally ill.
Hezekiah was the king of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to restore proper worship in the temple. The phrase "in those days" refers to a period during his reign when he faced significant challenges, including the Assyrian threat. His illness is described as "mortal," indicating it was life-threatening. This event is also recorded in 2 Kings 20:1-11 and Isaiah 38:1-8, providing a fuller picture of the circumstances. The cultural context of the time viewed illness as a potential sign of divine displeasure, which may have added to the gravity of Hezekiah's situation.

So he prayed to the LORD,
Hezekiah's response to his illness was to turn to God in prayer, demonstrating his reliance on divine intervention. This act of prayer is consistent with his character as a king who sought the Lord's guidance and help, as seen in his previous actions against idolatry and his reforms. Prayer was a central aspect of Hebrew worship and communication with God, reflecting a deep personal relationship and trust in God's power to heal and deliver.

who spoke to him
God's response to Hezekiah's prayer was direct and personal, indicating a close relationship between the king and the divine. This communication likely came through the prophet Isaiah, as detailed in the parallel accounts. The idea of God speaking to individuals is a recurring theme in the Bible, emphasizing His willingness to engage with His people and provide guidance, comfort, and instruction.

and gave him a sign.
The sign given to Hezekiah was the miraculous turning back of the shadow on the sundial of Ahaz, as described in 2 Kings 20:8-11 and Isaiah 38:7-8. This sign served as a confirmation of God's promise to heal Hezekiah and extend his life by fifteen years. Signs and wonders in the Bible often serve to authenticate God's message and His messengers, reinforcing faith and trust in His promises. This event also prefigures the miraculous signs associated with Jesus Christ, who performed miracles to validate His divine authority and mission.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The King of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and his reforms to restore proper worship in the kingdom. Hezekiah's life is marked by his reliance on God during times of crisis.

2. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who responds to Hezekiah's prayer and intervenes in his life by providing a miraculous sign.

3. Hezekiah's Illness
A significant event in Hezekiah's life where he faces a life-threatening illness, prompting him to seek divine intervention through prayer.

4. Prayer
Hezekiah's act of turning to God in his time of need, demonstrating his dependence on divine help.

5. The Sign
A miraculous confirmation from God in response to Hezekiah's prayer, signifying God's power and faithfulness.

Teaching Points

The Power of Prayer
Hezekiah's immediate response to his illness was to pray, demonstrating the importance of turning to God in times of crisis. Prayer should be our first response, not our last resort.

God's Faithfulness
God responded to Hezekiah's prayer with a sign, showing His faithfulness to those who seek Him. We can trust that God hears and answers our prayers according to His will.

The Role of Signs
The sign given to Hezekiah served as a confirmation of God's promise. While we may not always receive physical signs, we can rely on the assurances found in Scripture.

Dependence on God
Hezekiah's account reminds us of our need to depend on God, especially when facing life's challenges. Our strength and hope come from Him alone.

The Importance of Humility
Hezekiah's prayer was an act of humility, acknowledging his need for God's intervention. We must approach God with a humble heart, recognizing our dependence on His grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's response to his illness challenge or encourage you in your own prayer life?

2. In what ways can you seek God's guidance and confirmation in your life, similar to the sign given to Hezekiah?

3. How do the parallel accounts in 2 Kings 20 and Isaiah 38 enhance your understanding of God's response to Hezekiah's prayer?

4. What are some practical ways you can demonstrate dependence on God in your daily life, especially during difficult times?

5. How can the principles of prayer and humility seen in Hezekiah's account be applied to your interactions with others and your relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 20:1-11
This passage provides a parallel account of Hezekiah's illness and God's response, offering additional details about the sign given to Hezekiah.

Isaiah 38:1-8
Another parallel account that includes Hezekiah's prayer and God's promise to extend his life, emphasizing the power of prayer and God's mercy.

James 5:14-16
This New Testament passage highlights the importance of prayer in times of illness and the power of faith, drawing a parallel to Hezekiah's reliance on God.