In a previous edition of Thrive we read this amazing story about the deliverance of Jerusalem in the time of Hezekiah. The story is repeated in Isaiah which is an indication of its importance for biblical history. The story is recorded in 2 Kings (18-19), 2 Chronicles (32), here in Isaiah, it is even alluded to by the Greek historian Herodotus (II.141). Sennacherib also recorded the retreat from Jerusalem in his annals (iii.47–48). So, let’s be reminded that these are real events. This is no myth! According to Deuteronomy 18:22 a true prophet is proven when his predictions come true. That was the test laid down by God and God wanted us to know that Isaiah was indeed a true prophet. Isaiah made a bold prediction when he assured Hezekiah that this army would be destroyed without even one enemy arrow being fired. But this is not the only bold prediction that Isaiah made. He promised that Israel’s Messiah would come and rule over an everlasting Kingdom. He promised that this Messiah would deliver all who call on the name of the Lord. Jesus Christ is that Messiah, and he stands ready to deliver his people with as much surety as Isaiah’s prophecy that God would deliver Jerusalem from the Assyrians. Isaiah’s prediction about the destruction of Sennacherib’s army came about exactly as he described. So did his predictions about the Messiah. God’s promise of blessing extends to you also. Call on his name and see his faithfulness come through in your life.
Lift your concerns up to God. Let him lift away your anxiety.
Read Isaiah 36 and 37
