This verse is a reminder that our biggest struggles in life are not easily seen with an obvious opponent. Ours is a spiritual warfare. So many issues and problems can arise in our life, but behind them is the real enemy. When we feel spiritually mature, is all the more reason that we should draw ourselves closer to God. As the ups and downs do not seem apparent, it is wise that we fortify ourselves all the more. Satan does not rest. Satan does not take a day off. If there is a lull in our experience, be aware because the storm could easily come quickly. We may joyfully walk down a wooded pathway, enjoying the scenery and the weather, but that does not mean that a vicious animal does not await to attack us around the next curve in our hike. Satan would love to order his demons who would be challenging any modicum of happiness we have. We can refer to an Old Testament event that serves as an example for our potential attacks, and how best to respond to it.
We pick up this illustration beginning in 2 Kings 18. Hezekiah assumed the throne over Judah when he was just 25 years old. He reigned 29 more years in Jerusalem. Here is where we have a kinship with him. Verse three says, “he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, according to all that David his father did.” This man was dedicated to the Lord God. It was his intent to turn the people back to the proper worship of Jehovah. He destroyed the places and items that were instrumental in their idolatry. Here is the beginning of the matter. Hezekiah was experiencing his own spiritual high that he wanted to share with his countrymen. He prospered. He rebelled against the king of Assyria and made battle against the Philistines. Oh, how wonderful this must’ve been for him. How similar it is for us as we serve the Lord and enjoy his blessings. We feel close to God. We believe we are anointed by God.
Out of the blue the king of Assyria took steps against Judah. He carried away the inhabitants of the northern kingdom of Israel because God allowed him to be used as correction for their refusal to follow their own God. The king of Assyria was no doubt emboldened to attack Judah and their king Hezekiah. In response, Hezekiah agreed to give the king of Syria gold and silver from the house of the Lord. Here we have a compromise being made. Surely, you could recall the times that you have tried to compromise with evil for mutual benefit of yourself and Satan. To rationalize temptation is a sure set up clear spiritual failure. It never worked for your benefit.
This made matters worse. The emissaries from the king of Assyria challenged the confidence of the Jews while saying how powerful was the strength of their enemy Assyria. Furthermore, they challenged the validity of God himself similar to the times that we have doubts about God and our relationship with him. These enemies issued a rebuttal by demanding that the Jews hear the word of the great King of Assyria. There have been many Christians who while doubting their faith have faced deceptions from cults and false religions thinking that they were a better option than serving Jesus. From their arrogance they said, “Let not Hezekiah deceive you: for he shall not be able to deliver you out of his hand (the hand of the Assyrian king). The enemy tried to bribe the Jews just like Satan tempts us with what seems so wonderful and strikes at our weakest point.
A major step against Hezekiah was a letter he received from Assyria. Here is probably the most significant picture in this entire episode. Hezekiah did exactly what every one of us should do when facing a strong temptation. He laid out that letter from Assyria before the Lord. He called upon God for his own response against the verbal attacks Hezekiah received. The wisest thing we can do when under attack from the enemy is to seek God for our defense. God reassured Hezekiah by saying, “I will defend… I will save.” Consequently, during the night, the entire army of Assyria was annihilated by an angel. The king of Assyria abandoned his plans only to return to the town where he reigned and was assassinated by his own sons. When we think all is lost, when we feel we don’t have the strength to resist temptation, God is there! Never is God not in charge.
Christian Writer 