MPV Commentary
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for Isaiah 38
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for Isaiah 38
Hezekiah's song of thanksgiving is a remarkable expression of his faith and gratitude to God for healing him from his deadly illness.
In this song, Hezekiah acknowledges that God has done something extraordinary on his behalf, beyond what he could have expected (Isa 38:15). The phrase "both spoken and done it" emphasizes the reliability of God's promises, which are not just words but also actions (Nu 23:19).
Hezekiah attributes his healing to God alone, acknowledging that no one else could have done it (Ps 98:1). He expresses his determination to live a humble life in remembrance of his past suffering and sickness from which he has been delivered by God's mercy (1Ki 21:27, 29).
Hezekiah believes that all men live by the benefits of God's goodness, which are implied in the context (Isa 38:15). He adds a prayer to the confident hope founded on his comparative convalescence, expressing his desire for continued life and health.
In this song, Hezekiah also expresses his gratitude for God's love and attachment to him, even in the midst of suffering. He acknowledges that God has cast his sins behind His back, consigning them to oblivion (1Ki 14:9; Ne 9:26).
Hezekiah believes in a world of disembodied spirits, where the dead are unable to declare the praises of God before men. However, he expresses hope for the truth of God's promises, which will be fulfilled in the present state.
The song concludes with Hezekiah's expression of gratitude to God for his salvation and healing. He acknowledges that God was ready to save him, using even the humblest means (1Sa 25:18). The song was designed to be sung in public worship at stated times, perhaps on every anniversary of his recovery.
In this context, Hezekiah's song is a powerful expression of faith and gratitude, highlighting the reliability of God's promises and His willingness to use even the humblest means to achieve His purposes.