The field commander said to them, “Tell Hezekiah: “ ‘This is what the great king, the king of Assyria, says: On what are you basing this confidence of yours?
Isaiah 36:4 NIV
In the pages of Scripture, few stories illustrate the tension between earthly security and divine trust as vividly as the account of King Hezekiah in Isaiah 36. It is a narrative that speaks directly to our hearts today, reminding us that no fortress—no matter how strong—can compare to the shelter found in God alone.
The scene unfolds with Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, launching an aggressive campaign against Judah. By the time we reach Isaiah 36:1, the Assyrian forces have already captured all the fortified cities of Judah. These cities were more than just military outposts; they symbolised the nation’s confidence in their own strength. For generations, these walls had stood as bulwarks against invading armies, offering refuge and protection. Yet, when faced with the relentless advance of Sennacherib’s troops, those defences crumbled like sandcastles before the tide.
Sennacherib’s field commander taunted Hezekiah and his people, questioning the very foundation of their hope: “On what are you basing this confidence of yours?” (Isaiah 36:4). This question was not merely rhetorical—it cut to the heart of the matter. Where do we place our trust when everything we lean on begins to fail? The enemy’s strategy becomes clear: he seeks not only to take away material possessions but also to undermine faith itself. His ultimate aim is not the destruction of walls or weapons but the capture of souls.
Yet, even amidst such dire circumstances, Hezekiah offers us a profound example of unwavering faith. Rather than succumbing to fear or despair, Hezekiah turned his eyes toward heaven. He chose to entrust his soul—and the fate of his kingdom—to the One who holds all power. In doing so, Hezekiah demonstrated a truth that resonates through the ages: true security cannot be built by human hands. Our strongest defences lie not in fortified cities or worldly resources but in the unshakable presence of God.
This principle remains profoundly relevant for believers today. The enemy continues to employ the same tactics, seeking to weaken our resolve and distract us with temporal losses. Whether it’s financial struggles, relational conflicts, or personal setbacks, the adversary aims to shake our confidence and draw us away from God. But just as Hezekiah discovered, there is victory in surrender—not to the enemy, but to the Lord. When we commit our souls to Christ and rely on His promises, we find deliverance and peace that transcend any earthly challenge.
Consider the practical implications of this revelation. How often do we invest our energy in building “fortified cities” of our own—relying on wealth, status, or even religious routines—as if these things could shield us from life’s storms? While such measures may provide temporary comfort, they ultimately fall short when confronted by spiritual battles. True resilience comes from hiding our souls in Christ, allowing Him to guard what matters most. As Psalm 91:4 assures us, “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge.”
Hezekiah’s story challenges us to evaluate where we place our trust. Are we clinging to fleeting securities, or are we anchored in the eternal promises of God? The enemy’s relentless pursuit should serve as a wake-up call, urging us to prioritise our relationship with the Lord above all else. When trials come—and they inevitably will—we must remember that God delights in showing Himself strong on behalf of those who trust Him.
As you reflect on this passage, let it inspire you to deepen your dependence on God. Commit your soul to Him daily, knowing that He alone can preserve and protect it. Trust in His ability to deliver you from every attack, whether visible or unseen. And take courage in the knowledge that, like Hezekiah, your faith can become a testimony of God’s faithfulness and power.
Let us heed the lessons of Isaiah 36 and stand firm in the assurance that our ultimate victory lies not in earthly defences but in the unchanging character of our heavenly Father.