How does Hezekiah's preparation reflect the biblical principle of stewardship? Setting the Scene – 2 Kings 20:20 “Now the rest of the acts of Hezekiah—his might and how he made the pool and the conduit and brought water into the city—are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Judah?” Hezekiah’s Preparation in a Nutshell • Faced with Assyrian threats, Hezekiah redirected the Gihon spring through a 1,750-foot tunnel into the Pool of Siloam. • This ensured a secure, steady water supply during siege. • Scripture records this feat not as trivia but as a model of God-honoring foresight. Five Stewardship Principles on Display 1. Wise Planning – Proverbs 21:5: “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance.” – Luke 14:28: count the cost before building. Hezekiah did exactly that. 2. Diligent Workmanship – Ecclesiastes 9:10: “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” – The tunnel’s precision testifies to skilled, persistent labor. 3. Protection of God’s People – Nehemiah 4:14 highlights defending families and homes. – Hezekiah shielded Jerusalem’s residents by safeguarding water, life’s basic need. 4. Resource Management under Divine Ownership – Psalm 24:1: “The earth is the LORD’s, and all its fullness.” – Hezekiah handled Judah’s natural spring as a trust from God, not personal property. 5. Accountability and Recordkeeping – 1 Corinthians 4:2: “Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” – The chronicler’s note underscores transparency; faithful deeds are open to review. Echoes throughout Scripture • Genesis 41:34-36 – Joseph stores grain for famine: stewardship through preparation. • Proverbs 27:12 – “The prudent see danger and take cover.” • Matthew 25:14-30 – Parable of the talents: invest entrusted resources for the Master’s profit. Lessons for Today • Anticipate future needs instead of reacting in panic. • Channel skill and effort into projects that sustain God’s people. • Treat every asset—time, talent, money, environment—as the Lord’s property. • Keep clear records and welcome accountability. • Measure success by faithfulness to God, not public applause. Through a single verse on a water tunnel, Scripture gives a living portrait of stewardship: thoughtful planning, diligent action, and unwavering devotion to the welfare of God’s kingdom. |
    |