How can we apply Hezekiah's story to our interactions with non-believers today? Setting the Scene Hezekiah had just experienced a miraculous deliverance and personal healing. Envoys from Babylon arrived, curious about “the wonder that had happened in the land” (2 Chronicles 32:31). Key Verse “And so when the envoys of the princes of Babylon were sent to him to inquire about the wonder that had happened in the land, God left him to test him and to know what was in his heart.” (2 Chronicles 32:31) What Hezekiah Did • Opened every treasury and armory (2 Kings 20:13) • Spoke of his riches more than of God’s power • Failed the test of pride and discernment Core Lessons for Interacting with Non-Believers • Give God the Glory – Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before men… glorify your Father.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31: “Whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” Hezekiah spotlighted himself; we spotlight the Lord. • Guard the Heart – Proverbs 4:23: “Guard your heart with all diligence.” God “left him to test him”; tests still expose motives today. • Exercise Wise Transparency – Colossians 4:5-6: “Walk in wisdom toward outsiders… let your speech always be gracious.” Hezekiah showed everything; we share wisely, protecting what is sacred. • Resist Pride – James 4:6: “God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Pride in success ruins witness; humility magnifies Christ. • Depend on God, Not Assets – Psalm 20:7: “Some trust in chariots… but we trust in the name of the LORD.” Hezekiah’s treasures later attracted conquest; our true security is the gospel. • Be Ready to Explain the Miracle – 1 Peter 3:15: “Always be prepared to give an answer… for the hope within you.” When non-believers ask about God’s work in our lives, we point to the Cross, not ourselves. Practical Application Today 1. When God answers prayer, publicly credit Him rather than highlighting personal effort. 2. Share testimonies that elevate Christ; omit details that merely parade possessions or status. 3. Keep a humble posture—speak of God’s grace more than your achievements. 4. Before meetings with skeptics, pray for discernment so your words reveal what God wants, not everything you know. 5. Regularly invite the Spirit to search your motives (Psalm 139:23-24) so private pride never sabotages public witness. |
    |