Isaiah 39:1 At that time Marduk-Baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon sent Hezekiah letters and a gift, because he had heard of his illness and recovery.
Once again pride rears its ugly head. Hezekiah’s honest entreaty to the Lord leads God to give him 15 more years of life. The envoy from Babylon comes bearing gifts and well-wishes on his recovery, and Hezekiah is so puffed up that someone of notice takes notice that he shows them every single thing of value in the kingdom—everything—to reinforce the idea that though the country is little, it has value. The Babylonians absolutely took notice.
Isaiah 39:2a Hezekiah received the envoys gladly and showed them what was in his storehouses….
When Isaiah informs Hezekiah that his eagerness to show off has now made them a target but it will be after Hezekiah’s lifetime, Hezekiah’s only thought is that at least “There will be peace and security in my lifetime” (v8).
Isaiah 39:2b …the silver, the gold, the spices, the fine olive oil—his entire armory and everything found among his treasures….
Lord, We can be such vain, foolish creatures. Forgive us. We can so easily squander the opportunities You give us. Help us. Help us to get out of Your way and our own so that You can use us to comfort Your people and build Your kingdom on earth. Amen.
Isaiah 39:2c …There was nothing in his palace or in all his kingdom that Hezekiah did not show them.
Have a blessed day.