SUMMARY: Restrained
OVERVIEW: Despite the boasts from Assyria’s Sennacherib, God promised to restrain and defeat him to protect Jerusalem.
BIG IDEA: Fear God, not humanity.
KEY VERSE: 2 Kings 19:5–7 (Isaiah to the king’s messengers)
After King Hezekiah’s officials delivered the king’s message to Isaiah, the prophet replied, “Say to your master, ‘This is what the Lord says: Do not be disturbed by this blasphemous speech against me from the Assyrian king’s messengers. Listen! I myself will move against him, and the king will receive a message that he is needed at home. So he will return to his land, where I will have him killed with a sword.’”
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
I like this section of the Bible because I want you to know of the power, authority, and dominance of Assyria in the days of Hezekiah. He and Judah had every reason to be afraid if they did not trust me. Sennacherib swallowed up nations, and Judah was next on the list. Except that I am God and all authority and power belong to me. I determine the fate of nations and leaders, and as long as Judah trusted me, I would provide. And I did.
Are you looking for answers in life? Look to me. Are you seeking strength or deliverance? Turn to me. Ignore the idle threats of humankind. Men and women boast of their power and attempt to intimidate and control others. Cling to me and my truth. Trust in me. Live according to my instruction, and find victory. My eyes are open. I see all the world is trying to do. I will rescue you so that you know I alone am the living God.
NEXT STEP
Is there anyone or anything you turn to before trusting God? Develop the habit of making God your first response with any need. It may not be easy but begin by praying that you can focus on God today. Any time you look to someone or something other than God, acknowledge your choice and pray that God would be your priority.
LYRIC VIDEO