In our last visit we identified a title, key verses and significant truth for 2 Kings 18-20. We also considered some cross-references and questions arising from what is said. Then we developed a basic outline: Title—Doing Well: What Happened? The three points were: Hezekiah’s winning qualities, his waning characteristics and his wasted legacy. Let’s amplify these points.
His winning qualities included obedience, repentance, faith, prayer and courage.
His Waning characteristics following the miraculous deliverance from Sennacharibs’ army include balking at God’s plan for his life, a weakening faith, carelessness and self-interest.
His wasted legacy included no positive actions or accomplishments in the extra 15 years God gave him, the predicted judgment facing his people after his death, his seeming lack of concern over it, and the birth of his radically rebellious son, Mannasseh. In short, he did not finish well, even though he had lived such a God-honoring and God-blessed life, prior to the 15 years added to his lifetime.
A practical lesson learned from his life is the significant truth already indicated: Never presume that past successes guarantee finishing well. If God grants extra days or opportunities to your life, diligently use them to further God’s purposes, rather than gratify selfish desires. Rewards granted should be responsibly re-invested to benefit others. To finish well keep your eyes and heart on God and on the needs and interests of the next generation.
