Isaiah 38:3

"Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the LORD,"

Key Reflection

Hezekiah's action of turning his face to the wall before praying to the Lord was a gesture that indicated deep introspection and humility. In first-century Israel, prayer often involved facing a specific direction, typically toward Jerusalem or the Temple. By turning his face to the wall, Hezekiah emphasized his personal devotion and sincerity in addressing God directly, a practice that would have resonated with his contemporaries as a powerful expression of faith amidst trials.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

And said, Remember now, O Lord, I beseech thee -The object which Hezekiah desired was evidently that his life might be spared, and that he might not be suddenly cut off. He therefore makes mention of the former course of his life, not with ostentation, or as a ground of his acceptance or justification, but as a reason why his limb should not be cut off. He had not lived as many of the kings of Israel had done. He had not been a patron of idolatry. He had promoted an extensive and thorough reformation among the people.

More from Isaiah 38

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