The Power of Obedience: What We Can Learn from Hezekiah’s Story
Have you ever had a moment when life completely shifted without warning? One minute everything is fine, and the next, you’re facing a situation that feels overwhelming and impossible to fix. That’s exactly what happened to King Hezekiah in 2 Kings 20. Isaiah, the prophet of God, comes to him with devastating news: “Put your house in order, because you are going to die.” Can you imagine hearing that?
What stands out to me is how Hezekiah responded. He didn’t panic or argue with God. Instead, he turned his face to the wall and prayed. That action, turning to the wall, shows intentional focus. He blocked out everything else and gave God his undivided attention. When life feels out of control, do we respond this way? Or do we get caught up in fear, trying to solve things on our own?
Hezekiah’s prayer was simple and sincere. “Remember, Lord, how I have walked before You faithfully and with wholehearted devotion.” Then, he wept bitterly. This wasn’t a composed moment; it was raw and vulnerable. And here’s the beautiful part—God saw and heard him. Before Isaiah could leave the palace, God sent him back with a new message: Hezekiah would live, and God would add fifteen years to his life.
But there’s another layer to this story. God didn’t just speak healing over Hezekiah. He gave a specific instruction: “Apply a poultice of figs to the boil, and you will recover.” Hezekiah obeyed, even though God had already promised his healing. That step of obedience shows trust. He didn’t question the instruction or try to skip the process. He did what God asked, even in the small things.
This story reminds me that obedience is about trust, not just action. Hezekiah’s history of faithfulness allowed him to approach God boldly in prayer, and his willingness to follow God’s instructions, no matter how small, opened the door for his healing. Obedience isn’t always about big decisions. Often, it’s about the everyday moments where we choose to trust God even when we don’t fully understand His plan.
I know obedience can feel scary. Sometimes God asks us to step into the unknown or follow instructions that don’t make sense. But Hezekiah’s story shows us that obedience isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about trusting the God who does.
Let’s Chat: Reflection Questions
1. When you’re faced with difficult news or overwhelming situations, what is your first response? Do you turn to God like Hezekiah did?
2. Are there small steps of obedience that God has been asking of you? What might be holding you back from saying yes?
3. How does your relationship with God shape your ability to trust Him in uncertain moments?
4. What is one way you can quiet distractions and turn your focus fully to God when life feels overwhelming?
If you’re ready to grow deeper in your walk of obedience, I’d love for you to check out my ebook, Heart Check: A 7-Day Guide to Practicing Obedience. It’s filled with Scripture, reflection prompts, and practical steps to help you trust God in every area of your life. Click here to get your copy today. Let’s take this journey of faith and obedience together!
