In the narratives of 2 Kings, Isaiah, and 2 Chronicles, we read about a moment in King Hezekiah’s life that serves as a profound lesson for all of us. After recovering from a life-threatening illness through God’s miraculous intervention, Hezekiah proudly shows the envoys from Babylon all the treasures of his kingdom. This act of pride leads to a stark prophecy from Isaiah: everything Hezekiah showed to the Babylonians would one day be taken away, and his descendants would be carried off as captives.
Isaiah 39:6 (NIV):
“The time will surely come when everything in your palace, and all that your predecessors have stored up until this day, will be carried off to Babylon. Nothing will be left, says the Lord.”
Hezekiah’s story reminds us that all our possessions, achievements, and even our lives are temporary and ultimately belong to God. We may take pride in our accomplishments and the material wealth we accumulate, but we must remember that these are merely on loan to us. We are stewards, not owners.
1 Timothy 6:7 (NIV):
“For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.”
Since everything we have is temporary, we should focus on using our perishable possessions for imperishable purposes. This means investing our time, resources, and talents in ways that have eternal significance. Rather than hoarding wealth or seeking personal glory, we should strive to further God’s kingdom, help those in need, and live lives that reflect His love and grace.
Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV):
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Hezekiah’s mistake was focusing on earthly wealth and pride rather than acknowledging God’s sovereignty and purpose for his life and kingdom. We are called to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that our true home is in heaven and that our time on earth is an opportunity to prepare for that eternal life with God. Too often, we strive to be remembered by people who will one day be forgotten, rather than seeking to make an impact that lasts for eternity.
Colossians 3:2 (NIV):
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
Are there possessions or achievements in your life that you are overly proud of, forgetting that they are gifts from God? How can you use your resources and talents to serve God and others in ways that have eternal significance? What changes can you make in your daily life to align more closely with an eternal perspective?