2 Kings·Chapter 18

How to Apply

This week, take a moment to reflect on where you are putting your trust. Are there voices in your life that are leading you to doubt your beliefs or the good things you hope for? Write down the good things you believe about your future and the sources of those beliefs. When doubts arise, remind yourself of these hopes and choose to focus on what’s positive and true. It's also helpful to talk to a friend about what you're feeling—sharing can strengthen your resolve and keep you grounded.

Chapter Context

In this chapter, the king of Judah, Hezekiah, is facing a massive threat from the Assyrian army. They’re powerful, and they’re trying to intimidate him and the people of Jerusalem. This verse comes at a critical moment when the Assyrians are trying to get the people to abandon their faith in God and trust in their own power instead. It’s a turning point—either they cling to hope or surrender to fear. This verse underscores the tension and stakes of the situation: do you trust in what you can see or in a promise of something greater? It’s the climax of a battle not just for a city, but for faith itself.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• come - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• take - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• away - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• land - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• land - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• land - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• grain - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• wine - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• land - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• bread - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What are some things in your life that tempt you to doubt what you believe is possible? How can you remind yourself of the good things that lie ahead?

Related Verses

• Isaiah 36:16 - The Assyrians are trying to persuade the people to abandon their trust in God, showing the same pressure of doubt.
• Jeremiah 29:11 - This is about God's promise for a hopeful future, connecting to the idea of a better land.
• Psalm 37:3 - Encourages trust in God and doing good, echoing the sentiment of believing in a fruitful life.
• Ezekiel 34:14 - Speaks of a land of plenty, similar to the promised land described in this verse.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in 2 Kings 18:32. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Righteous Leadership, Idolatry Destruction, Trust in God, Assyrian Oppression, Judgment on Israel, Faithful Obedience, Divine Deliverance

Key Verses

2 Kings 18:3, 2 Kings 18:5, 2 Kings 18:7, 2 Kings 18:14, 2 Kings 18:19

Historical Context

The backdrop of 2 Kings Chapter 18 is marked by the political turmoil of ancient Near Eastern powers, particularly the rise of Assyria as a dominant force. Hezekiah's reign begins amidst the decline of the northern kingdom of Israel, which has just fallen to Assyria. The chapter is critical in illustrating the contrasting paths of faithfulness and rebellion among Judah's leaders, especially as Hezekiah emerges as a reformer dedicated to restoring true worship. The interactions with the Assyrian empire highlight the geopolitical pressures faced by Judah, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of faith in the face of adversity in subsequent chapters.