Facing danger with prayer

O Lord our God, I pray, save us... that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that You are the Lord God. – 2 Kings 19:19

Trouble lay ahead for King Hezekiah of Judah. He had just received a menacing letter from Assyria’s King Senna-cherib. This marauding monarch had conquered many cities, and Jerusalem was next on his list. In his letter, Sennacherib mocked the God of Israel and threatened to destroy the holy city.

We read in 2 Kings 19 that Hezekiah went immediately up to the temple and spread the letter before the Lord. He acknowledged Him as the One who created all things (v. 15). He told Him that Sennacherib had reproached the living God (v. 16). Finally, He pleaded with God to deliver Judah so that all the nations of the world would know that He alone is God (v. 19). Hezekiah’s actions said, in effect, "Look, God! Read this! I need your help. Your honor is at stake!"

What an example of faith in a real God who is present and aware of our needs! Like Hezekiah, we at times face imminent danger from someone who wants to harm us. Or it may be some other kind of menacing situation. No matter what we ultimately do, our first response should be to tell God of the danger and praise Him for His greatness. Then we can trust Him for the kind of help that brings Him glory.

Facing danger? God honors Hezekiah-style prayers. – J. David Branon

Have we trials and temptations?

Is there trouble anywhere?

We should never be discouraged –

Take it to the Lord in prayer. – Scriven

READ: 2 Kings 19:1-19

In the face of danger, face danger with prayer.

The Bible in one year:

• 2 Kings 19-21

• John 4:1-30