2 Kings 20–21

Common Theme
God responds to prayer and extends mercy to the repentant, yet He also brings judgment when leaders lead His people into deep sin and idolatry. The faithfulness of God contrasts sharply with human unfaithfulness and rebellion.

Questions

• How does God’s response to Hezekiah’s prayer demonstrate His mercy and sovereignty over life and death?
• What does Manasseh’s reign reveal about the consequences of turning a nation toward idolatry?

God Shot
God shows Himself as both merciful and just—merciful in granting Hezekiah more years of life and delivering Jerusalem, yet just in declaring judgment against Judah for Manasseh’s wickedness. He is a God who listens to prayer but will not overlook persistent rebellion against His covenant.