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Hezekiah’s Illness and the Prophet’s Visit

King Hezekiah of Judah was seriously ill, and the word of the Lord came to the prophet Isaiah. Isaiah went to him and said, “This is what the Lord says: Put your house in order, because you are going to die; you will not recover.” Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed earnestly to the Lord. He wept bitterly as he sought God’s mercy.

The Lord’s Answer to Hezekiah’s Prayer

After Hezekiah’s prayer, the word of the Lord came to Isaiah again. Isaiah went back to Hezekiah and told him, “This is what the Lord, the God of your ancestor David, says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears. I will add fifteen years to your life. I will deliver you and this city from the hand of the king of Assyria, and I will defend this city.” These words brought hope to Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem.

God’s Promise of Healing and the Sign

To confirm the promise, Isaiah told Hezekiah to choose a sign from the Lord – either the shadow going forward ten steps or going back ten steps. Hezekiah chose for the shadow to go back ten steps. Then the Lord made the shadow go back ten steps on the stairway of Ahaz as a sign that Hezekiah would be healed and live another fifteen years. The promise of healing was sealed with this miraculous event, giving Hezekiah confidence in God’s power and mercy.

Hezekiah’s Recovery and Recognition of God’s Intervention

Following the prophecy and the sign given through Isaiah, Hezekiah recovered from his illness. His health was restored, and the threat of immediate death was lifted. During this time, other kings sent Hezekiah letters and gifts, acknowledging that the Lord had healed him and that He had become a symbol of God’s favor. The narrative of Hezekiah’s prayer and the promise of healing records this journey from death to life, showing the Lord’s direct intervention in response to sincere prayer.