Day 203

This passage shows Hezekiah as a little selfish and proud. When the prince of Babylon came to Hezekiah, Hezekiah showed him all the riches in Jerusalem! Hezekiah was not afraid of the Babylonians lusting over the treasures of Judah.

Later, Isaiah confronted Hezekiah about what he showed the visitors, and then Isaiah gave Hezekiah a prophesy. Isaiah said in 2 Kings 20 verse 17, "Behold, the days are coming, when all that is in your house, and that your fathers stored up till this day, shall be carried to Babylon. Nothing shall be left, says the Lord."

Hezekiah's response in verse 19 says, "Why not, if there will be peace and security in my days."

What! That to me seems selfish. Hezekiah seems to be one of the best kings Judah ever had, but that was not the way a king should act.

It is also not the way Christians should act. We are called to be others oriented; especially those in leadership positions.

Also, do not brag about one's riches. It will only lead to destruction. Do not be prideful. "If you are to boast, boast in the Lord." These continue to be my struggles and goals.