Pastor Scott’s History series recently covered 2nd Kings Chapters 20 & 21 where we read about King Hezekiah of Judah and his son Manasseh who succeeded Him to the throne. Both of them had a fundamental misunderstanding of legacy – the influence they had on the next generation and the good, or bad, example they were setting.
Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, “Listen to this message from the LORD: 17 The time is coming when everything in your palace–all the treasures stored up by your ancestors until now–will be carried off to Babylon. Nothing will be left, says the LORD. 18 Some of your very own sons will be taken away into exile. They will become eunuchs who will serve in the palace of Babylon’s king.” 19 Then Hezekiah said to Isaiah, “This message you have given me from the LORD is good.” For the king was thinking, “At least there will be peace and security during my lifetime.” – 2 Kings 20:16-19
Hezekiah was too concerned with his own comfort to think about what would take place after he died, which is incredibly sad. His focus was on material comfort instead of Spiritual security and His son Manasseh inherited this twisted set of priorities.
Manasseh was twelve years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-five years. His mother was Hephzibah. 2 He did what was evil in the LORD’s sight, following the detestable practices of the pagan nations that the LORD had driven from the land ahead of the Israelites. – 2 Kings 21:1-2
For Fifty-seven years Manasseh led the nation of Judah into all sorts of gross sinful practices including sacrificing his own child. Even then though, God extended grace and an opportunity for Manasseh to repent.
But while in deep distress, Manasseh sought the LORD his God and sincerely humbled himself before the God of his ancestors. 13 And when he prayed, the LORD listened to him and was moved by his request. So the LORD brought Manasseh back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh finally realized that the LORD alone is God! … 16 Then he restored the altar of the LORD and sacrificed peace offerings and thanksgiving offerings on it. He also encouraged the people of Judah to worship the LORD, the God of Israel. 17 However, the people still sacrificed at the pagan shrines, though only to the LORD their God. – 2 Chronicles 33:12-13 & 16-17
Although Manasseh repented and began to do what was right in God’s sight ultimately the damage was done and His legacy, like his Father Hezekiah, was one of sin and rebellion against God. He was the last king in Judah to worship God and things rapidly went downhill after his death.
This is a sad and painful story, yet it is one that still points to the loving patience and enduring Grace of God. What legacy are you currently building? How will you be remembered? What impact is your life having for God? It’s never too late to ask God to help you change and begin to priorities Spiritual health over material wealth. God bless you as you ponder these things today.