I will defend this city, to save it For My own sake and for My servant David’s sake. 2 Kings 19:34
Hezekiah is co-regent with his father Ahaz when the northern kingdom falls to Assyria. He assumes full control some four years before his father’s death. Hezekiah proves to be one of Judah’s most godly kings. He reopens the temple, reinstitute the festivals ordained in the law, and purges the land of its places for idol worship.
Unlike his father, Hezekiah is anti-Assyrian. But he wisely holds back from open hostilities after the death of Sagon II in 705. However, his successor invades Judah in 701. When the fortified city of Lachish is taken by Sennacherib, Hezekiah submits. But the Assyrians seem determined to destroy Jerusalem. When a delegation jeers at the land and its God, Hezekiah brings the matter to the Lord with great faith. Jerusalem is spared.
Micah Micah prophecies before and after the fall of Israel. He speaks to confront Israel and Judah with their sin, and to explain the Assyrian invasion as God’s judgment. He undoubtedly helps stimulate the revival under King Hezekiah.