Isaiah 38:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 38:3
3 And said, Remember now, O LORD, I beseech thee, how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 38 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, creation, sacrifice. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 38:3
3 And said, Remember now, O LORD, I beseech thee, how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore.
Analysis
Hezekiah's prayer appeals to his covenant faithfulness and wholehearted devotion, not as merit earning salvation, but as evidence of genuine faith. The Hebrew 'perfect heart' (shalem) means complete or undivided loyalty, not sinless perfection. His 'sore weeping' demonstrates that mature faith includes honest emotional expression before God, not stoic denial of human frailty.
Historical Context
Hezekiah's reforms (removing high places, breaking images, destroying the bronze serpent) and faithful tribute payment to God distinguished him from his predecessors. His 'walking before God' echoed the language of his ancestor David.
Reflection
- Do you bring your honest emotions to God in prayer, or try to sanitize them?
- What evidence of faithful 'walking before God' characterizes your life?
Word Studies
- Truth: אֱמֶת (Emet) H571 - Truth, faithfulness
Cross-References
- References Lord: Psalms 6:8
- Good: Deuteronomy 6:18, Nehemiah 5:19, 13:14
- Parallel theme: 1 Chronicles 29:19, Nehemiah 13:22, John 1:47, 2 Corinthians 1:12, Hebrews 5:7, 6:10