Isaiah 37:3

to tell him, "This is what Hezekiah says: Today is a day of distress, rebuke, and disgrace; for children have come to the point of birth, but there is no strength to deliver them.

Study Bible

This is what Hezekiah says
Hezekiah, the king of Judah, is a central figure in this narrative. His name in Hebrew, "חִזְקִיָּהוּ" (Chizqiyahu), means "Yahweh strengthens." This reflects his reliance on God during times of crisis. Historically, Hezekiah was known for his religious reforms and his efforts to centralize worship in Jerusalem, emphasizing his commitment to the God of Israel. His words here are a direct communication to the prophet Isaiah, seeking divine intervention.

This day is a day of distress
The term "distress" in Hebrew is "צָרָה" (tsarah), which conveys a sense of trouble or adversity. This reflects the dire situation faced by Judah as the Assyrian army, led by Sennacherib, threatened Jerusalem. The historical context is crucial here, as the Assyrian Empire was a dominant force, known for its military prowess and brutal conquests. The "day of distress" signifies a moment of acute crisis for the nation.

rebuke
The Hebrew word for "rebuke" is "תּוֹכֵחָה" (tokhechah), which can also mean correction or chastisement. This suggests that the distress faced by Judah may be seen as a form of divine correction. In the broader scriptural context, God often uses nations to discipline His people, calling them back to faithfulness. Hezekiah's acknowledgment of rebuke indicates a recognition of the need for repentance and divine mercy.

and disgrace
"Disgrace" in Hebrew is "חֶרְפָּה" (cherpah), meaning reproach or shame. This term captures the humiliation that Judah faced under the threat of Assyrian domination. In the ancient Near Eastern context, military defeat was often seen as a sign of a nation's gods being weaker than those of the conquerors. For Judah, this disgrace was not just political but also spiritual, challenging their faith in Yahweh.

for children have come to the point of birth
This metaphorical phrase uses the imagery of childbirth to describe a critical juncture. In Hebrew culture, childbirth was a significant event, often fraught with danger but also hope. The phrase suggests that Judah is on the brink of a new beginning or deliverance, yet the outcome is uncertain. It reflects the tension between impending disaster and the potential for divine intervention.

but there is no strength to deliver them
The lack of strength to deliver, "כֹּחַ" (koach) in Hebrew, underscores the helplessness of Judah in the face of overwhelming odds. This phrase highlights human limitations and the need for divine assistance. In the biblical narrative, it serves as a reminder that true strength and deliverance come from God alone. Hezekiah's plea is an appeal for God's power to manifest in their time of need.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The King of Judah during the time of the Assyrian invasion. He is known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices of Judah.

2. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament who served as a spiritual advisor to King Hezekiah. He conveyed God's messages to the king and the people of Judah.

3. Assyrian Invasion
The historical context of this passage is the siege of Jerusalem by the Assyrian army under King Sennacherib. This was a time of great fear and uncertainty for the people of Judah.

4. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, which was under threat from the Assyrian forces. It was a focal point of God's promises and the center of Jewish worship.

5. Sennacherib
The King of Assyria, known for his military campaigns and attempts to conquer Jerusalem. His invasion posed a significant threat to the kingdom of Judah.

Teaching Points

Recognizing Times of Distress
Just as Hezekiah acknowledged the day as one of distress, rebuke, and disgrace, we must recognize and admit our own times of trouble, seeking God's guidance and strength.

Dependence on God
The metaphor of children coming to the point of birth but lacking strength to deliver highlights our need for God's intervention. In our own lives, we must rely on God's power rather than our own.

The Role of Prayer
Hezekiah's response to the crisis was to seek God through prayer. In our challenges, prayer should be our first response, seeking God's wisdom and deliverance.

God's Faithfulness
Despite the dire situation, God remained faithful to His promises. We can trust in God's faithfulness and His ability to deliver us from our own "Assyrian" threats.

Spiritual Leadership
Hezekiah's leadership in turning to God serves as a model for spiritual leaders today. Leaders should guide their people to seek God in times of crisis.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat challenge us to respond to our own crises today?

2. In what ways can we identify with the metaphor of children coming to the point of birth but lacking strength? How does this apply to our spiritual lives?

3. How can we cultivate a habit of turning to prayer first in times of distress, as Hezekiah did?

4. What are some modern-day "Assyrian" threats that challenge our faith, and how can we rely on God's faithfulness to overcome them?

5. How can spiritual leaders today emulate Hezekiah's example in guiding their communities through difficult times?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 19
This chapter parallels Isaiah 37 and provides additional details about Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat, including his prayer and God's deliverance.

Psalm 46
Often associated with God's protection of Jerusalem during the Assyrian siege, this psalm emphasizes God's presence and power in times of trouble.

Isaiah 7:14
The prophecy of Immanuel, which speaks to God's presence with His people, offering hope and assurance even in dire circumstances.