Hey Bible readers, I'm Tara Lee Cobble, and I'm your host for the Bible Recap.

Today we revisited part of the story we first read on day 206, including Hezekiah's response to King

Sinakarib's threats. We're reminded of how humbly he responded

when troubles came his way. And since we've read this story before, you probably recall that after

this, when he's been blessed and his stockpiled fortunes and he gets to live an extra 15 years,

his heart arcs away from God. He becomes prideful, doubts God's words, and lives somewhat carelessly.

One of the things we didn't touch on when we first read this story a few days ago was the part

where God puts a spirit in Sinacra that will cause him to hear a lie. There are a few noteworthy

things about that. First, God is in charge of evil spirits. They're on a leash and they have to do what

he says and go where he commands. That's comforting. Second, God himself didn't mislead Sinaccharib.

Scripture tells us repeatedly that God cannot lie. Hebrews 618 says he's incapable of it.

It would be contrary to his nature, because according to John 14, one of his names is

the truth.

He is the truth.

But God certainly does use evil for his own purposes.

When Romans 828 says he works all things together for the good of those who love him,

evil is included in that list of all things, the good, the bad, and the ugly, the truth he speaks, and the rumors other speak.

So he allows Sinakurib to be misled. If you think that might be an unjust response, try to zoom out

and remember how Sinakurib has openly mocked Yahweh, and his leaders

tell the people of Judah that they shouldn't let Yahweh trick them into trusting him.

This is a merciful response based on what Sinacurib actually deserves from God.

Isaiah also tells Hezekiah that they will win this war without even putting gas in their

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