Old Testament: 2 Kings 18
Poetry: Psalm 86
New Testament: Luke 20
Scriptures:
“He trusted in Yahweh the God of Israel, so that after him there was none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor among those who were before him.” — 2 Kings 18:5 (LEB)
Psalm 86: “Teach me, O Yahweh, your way, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.” — Psalm 86:11 (LEB)
Luke 20: “And Jesus said to them, ‘Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.'” — Luke 20:25 (LEB)
In 2 Kings 18, Hezekiah’s trust in God stands as a powerful example of faith and commitment to God. By removing idols and leading Judah back to true worship, Hezekiah’s actions reflect a heart fully devoted to God. This theme of wholehearted devotion is echoed in Psalm 86 and Luke 20, tying together a comprehensive understanding of what it means to trust and honor God.
Hezekiah’s reforms in Judah were driven by his deep trust in God. He actively sought to purify his kingdom from idolatry, demonstrating his dedication to God’s ways. His trust was not merely a passive belief but a driving force that led to decisive action and comprehensive reform.
Psalm 86 is a prayer of David, asking God to teach him His way so that he might walk in truth. David’s plea to unite his heart to fear God’s name resonates with Hezekiah’s life. Both show a desire to align their hearts and actions with God’s will, seeking His guidance and truth in all things.
In Luke 20, Jesus teaches about giving to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God. This teaching emphasizes the importance of recognizing our ultimate allegiance to God. Just as Hezekiah dedicated his reign to purging Judah of idolatry and leading the people back to God, we are called to dedicate our lives to honoring God above all else.
Hezekiah, David, and Jesus all highlight the importance of wholehearted devotion to God. This involves seeking His ways, trusting Him fully, and ensuring that our lives reflect His truth. Hezekiah’s actions in Judah show that true faith leads to action. Similarly, Psalm 86 and Luke 20 call us to live out our faith in practical ways, aligning our lives with God’s will and giving Him our full allegiance. Seeking God’s guidance, as David does in Psalm 86, and understanding our duty to God, as taught by Jesus in Luke 20, are essential aspects of living a life that honors Him. We are to learn His ways, walk in His truth, and render our lives to Him.
– Jeff Ransom
Reflection Questions:
Are there any areas in your life where you need to seek God’s guidance to walk more fully in His truth? How can you actively demonstrate your trust in God through your actions, like Hezekiah did? What does it mean to you to render to God what is God’s, and how can you live this out in your daily life?
This week, reflect on these questions and take steps to deepen your devotion to God. Seek His guidance, trust in His ways, and ensure that your actions align with His truth.
Seek Grow Love 