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Hezekiah had always sought and worked wholeheartedly for God. Much success had come his way but in 2 Chronicles 32:24 – 33:25, we read about him falling into pride and materialism.  This goes to show us that one is never too spiritual to fall into the enemy’s traps. We must continue to evaluate our own attitudes and goals throughout life.

Later in life, Hezekiah became ill and almost to the point of death. Then he prayed to the Lord, who answered him and gave him a miraculous sign (V32:24). All in all, Hezekiah was a good king and was honored by all Judah and the people of Jerusalem upon his death. Manasseh his son succeeded him as king.

The chronicler lists the specific abuses and wrongdoings of which Manasseh is guilty. He rebuilt the high places his father Hezekiah had demolished; he also erected altars to the Baals and made Asherah poles (V 4). He sacrificed his sons in the fire in the Valley of Ben Hinnom, practiced sorcery, divination and witchcraft, and consulted mediums and spiritualists (V. 6).

Manasseh led Judah and the people of Jerusalem astray. The Lord spoke to them but they didn’t pay attention so the Lord brought against them the army of Assyria who took Manasseh prisoner. There is some indication that Manasseh learns something from this experience because he humbled himself and sought the favor of the Lord. He prayed and God listened to his request.

The rest of his life, Manasseh lived differently. He got rid of the foreign gods and removed the image from the Temple of the Lord. He restored the altar of the Lord and sacrificed fellowship offerings and thanks offerings on it. He told the people of Judah to serve the Lord, the God of Israel (V 16).

Think of the lessons you have learned throughout life. Are there steps you can take now that will build on what God had done and help you to become a better person? Can these lessons be shared with others? What steps can you take today in order to live in a way that will help and not damage those around you?  Each day with God can be amazing if we submit to His will and put Him first in our marriage, family, career, ministry, and relationships.