Isaiah 39:8

But Hezekiah said to Isaiah, "The word of the LORD that you have spoken is good." For he thought, "At least there will be peace and security in my lifetime."

Study Bible

But Hezekiah said to Isaiah
This phrase introduces us to the response of King Hezekiah, a significant figure in the history of Judah. Hezekiah was a king known for his faithfulness to God, as recorded in 2 Kings 18:5, where it is said that he trusted in the LORD more than any of the kings of Judah before or after him. The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) often conveys not just speaking but a declaration or proclamation, indicating the weight of Hezekiah's words. This moment is pivotal, as it reflects Hezekiah's heart and mindset after receiving a prophetic word from Isaiah.

The word of the LORD that you have spoken is good
Here, Hezekiah acknowledges the message from Isaiah as "good," which might seem surprising given the prophecy of future Babylonian captivity. The Hebrew word for "good" (טוֹב, tov) can mean pleasant, agreeable, or beneficial. In this context, Hezekiah's acceptance of the prophecy as "good" reflects a submission to God's will, recognizing that God's plans, even when difficult, are ultimately righteous and just. This acceptance is a testament to Hezekiah's faith and trust in God's sovereignty.

For he thought
This phrase provides insight into Hezekiah's internal reasoning. The Hebrew verb translated as "thought" (אָמַר, 'amar) is the same as "said" earlier, suggesting a deep, internal dialogue or consideration. It indicates that Hezekiah's response was not merely superficial but came from a place of contemplation and understanding of the broader implications of God's word.

There will be peace and security in my lifetime
Hezekiah's reflection on "peace and security" (שָׁלוֹם וֶאֱמֶת, shalom ve'emet) reveals his immediate concern for the well-being of his kingdom during his reign. "Shalom" is a rich Hebrew word often translated as peace, but it encompasses completeness, welfare, and harmony. "Emet" means truth or faithfulness, suggesting stability and reliability. Hezekiah's focus on his lifetime indicates a human tendency to find solace in the present, even when future challenges are foretold. This perspective can be seen as both a relief and a limitation, highlighting the tension between immediate comfort and long-term consequences.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The King of Judah during this time, known for his faithfulness to God but also for his human weaknesses. He is the central figure in this passage, responding to a prophecy about the future of his kingdom.

2. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament who served as God's messenger. He delivered the prophecy to Hezekiah regarding the future consequences of his actions.

3. Babylonian Envoys
Representatives from Babylon who visited Hezekiah, leading to the events that prompted Isaiah's prophecy. Their visit foreshadows the future Babylonian captivity.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, over which Hezekiah reigned. The prophecy concerns the future of this kingdom.

5. Prophecy of Captivity
The event where Isaiah prophesies that the treasures of Judah and Hezekiah's descendants will be taken to Babylon, a significant turning point in Judah's history.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Short-Sightedness
Hezekiah's response reveals a focus on immediate comfort rather than long-term consequences. Believers are encouraged to consider the future impact of their actions on others.

The Importance of Humility
Hezekiah's pride led to a lack of concern for future generations. Christians are called to humility, recognizing that their actions can have far-reaching effects.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Despite the grim prophecy, God's ultimate plan for redemption and restoration remains. Believers can trust in God's sovereignty even when facing difficult truths.

Intergenerational Responsibility
Hezekiah's response highlights the need for believers to care for future generations, ensuring that their legacy is one of faithfulness and obedience to God.

The Role of Prophecy
Prophecy serves as both a warning and a guide. Christians should heed prophetic messages in Scripture, allowing them to shape their lives and decisions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's response to Isaiah's prophecy reflect his priorities, and what can we learn from this about our own priorities?

2. In what ways can pride lead to spiritual blindness, as seen in Hezekiah's actions, and how can we guard against this in our lives?

3. How does the prophecy of future captivity challenge us to think about the long-term consequences of our actions today?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate concern for future generations in our daily decisions and spiritual practices?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Hezekiah's account to our understanding of God's sovereignty and our trust in His plans for the future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 20:12-19
This passage provides a parallel account of the events in Isaiah 39, offering additional context to Hezekiah's actions and Isaiah's prophecy.

2 Chronicles 32:31
This verse highlights Hezekiah's pride and the testing of his heart by God, which is relevant to understanding his response in Isaiah 39:8.

Jeremiah 29:10
This verse speaks of the Babylonian captivity and the promise of return, connecting to the prophecy's fulfillment and God's faithfulness.

Philippians 2:4
This New Testament verse encourages believers to look not only to their own interests but also to the interests of others, contrasting Hezekiah's self-centered response.