Isaiah 38:22

English NET Bible - 2005 (New English Translation)

Hezekiah said, “What is the confirming sign that I will go up to the LORD’s temple?” [7] Isaiah replied, “This is your sign from the LORD confirming that the LORD will do what he has said: [8] Look, I will make the shadow go back ten steps on the stairs of Ahaz.” And then the shadow went back ten steps. Hezekiah’s Song of Thanks [9] This is the prayer of King Hezekiah of Judah when he was sick and then recovered from his illness: [10] “I thought, ‘In the middle of my life I must walk through the gates of Sheol, I am deprived of the rest of my years.’ [11] “I thought, ‘I will no longer see the LORD in the land of the living, I will no longer look on humankind with the inhabitants of the world. [12] My dwelling place is removed and taken away from me like a shepherd’s tent. I rolled up my life like a weaver rolls cloth; from the loom he cuts me off. You turn day into night and end my life. [13] I cry out until morning; like a lion he shatters all my bones; you turn day into night and end my life. [14] Like a swallow or a thrush I chirp, I coo like a dove; my eyes grow tired from looking up to the sky. O sovereign master, I am oppressed; help me! [15] What can I say? He has decreed and acted. I will walk slowly all my years because I am overcome with grief. [16] O sovereign master, your decrees can give men life; may years of life be restored to me. Restore my health and preserve my life.’ [17] “Look, the grief I experienced was for my benefit. You delivered me from the pit of oblivion. For you removed all my sins from your sight. [18] Indeed Sheol does not give you thanks; death does not praise you. Those who descend into the pit do not anticipate your faithfulness. [19] The living person, the living person, he gives you thanks, as I do today. A father tells his sons about your faithfulness. [20] The LORD is about to deliver me, and we will celebrate with music for the rest of our lives in the LORD’s temple.”

What Does This Mean?

In this verse, Hezekiah, a king of Judah, is asking for a sign to confirm that he will recover and be able to go to the temple. Hezekiah is speaking to the prophet Isaiah, who had given him a message from God.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're really sick and your doctor says you'll get better. You might ask, 'How do I know I'll get better?' That's what Hezekiah is doing here. He wants to be sure he'll be well enough to go to the special house where people talk to God.

Historical Background

This verse is from the book of Isaiah, written around 700 BCE. The book was written by the prophet Isaiah, who was speaking to the people of Judah during a time of political turmoil. Hezekiah was a king who sought God's guidance during a time of illness.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, we often seek signs or reassurance when facing difficult situations. For instance, if someone is sick and unsure of recovery, they might look for signs that they will get better. This verse encourages us to seek assurance in our faith and to trust in God's promises.

Topics

faithhealingsignshopetrustillness

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Hezekiah need a sign?

Hezekiah was facing a serious illness and wanted assurance that he would recover and be able to worship at the temple. Signs in the Bible often provide confidence and confirmation.

What was the sign Hezekiah received?

According to the context in Isaiah 38:7-8, God reversed the shadow on the sun-dial as a sign to Hezekiah that he would live another 15 years.

How did Hezekiah's request reflect his faith?

Hezekiah's request for a sign shows his trust in God's power and willingness to seek assurance in his faith, even when facing a difficult situation.

What can we learn from Hezekiah's request?

We can learn to seek assurance and confirmation from God during tough times and to trust in His promises and interventions.

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