(story told in 2 Kings 19:2-20:19; 2 Chronicles 26:22; 32:20, 32)
Isaiah was one of God’s great prophets during the reigns of several kings in Judah, including Uzziah, Hezekiah, and Manasseh. He lived during a time when the people often turned away from God and faced powerful enemies. Isaiah’s mission was to remind Judah that their true security did not come from armies or alliances but from trusting in the Lord. His words brought both warning and hope, calling the nation back to faithfulness.
One of Isaiah’s most important moments came during King Hezekiah’s reign, when the mighty Assyrian army surrounded Jerusalem. The Assyrian commander mocked God and threatened to destroy the city. In fear, Hezekiah sent messengers to Isaiah, asking him to pray for deliverance. Isaiah assured the king that God had heard his prayer and that the Assyrian king would not enter Jerusalem. Soon after, God miraculously struck down the enemy army, saving the city without a single sword being lifted.
Later, when Hezekiah became deathly ill, Isaiah told him that he would not recover. But when the king prayed earnestly, God showed mercy and extended his life by fifteen years. To confirm this promise, God caused the shadow on a sundial to move backward—a sign that His power and faithfulness could even turn time itself.
Isaiah also warned Hezekiah when he proudly showed his treasures to visitors from Babylon, foretelling that one day those riches would be carried away into exile. His message reminded the king to remain humble and depend on God alone.
Through his ministry, Isaiah revealed God’s holiness, justice, and compassion. His life reminds us that even in times of danger and pride, God’s Word offers both correction and lasting hope.