Lessons from Hezekiah

I spent much of the morning sitting on my front porch today studying sermon notes, Sunday School lesson, Sunday evening notes and regular Bible study. While enjoying a fall-like day, I was reading about King Hezekiah in II Chronicles and I noted a few things about his life we should all consider.
First, when confronted with a problem take all possible steps to remedy the situation, but also submit the situation to God in prayer. The Assyrian army was headed toward Judah in great numbers. Hezekiah saw through the eyes of faith. He knew that the overwhelming numbers of the Assyrians did not matter as long as God was on his side. How often do we surrender when a situation seems insurmountable without even taking the matter to God?
I also note that Hezekiah was human. When God tested him, Hezekiah caved in to human pride. After all the Lord had done for him and Judah, Hezekiah took credit, pointing out his accomplhishments rather than God's. I believe He wants us to have confidence in ourselves, but also understand what God has done as well and give Him proper credit.
Finally, after ruling the nation for 29 years, Hezekiah dies and his son, Manasseh took the throne. After watching his father rule for so many years following the Lord and enjoying the blessing that came to Judah, Manassah destroyed all that had been done, turning the nation into a Godless kingdom. I have no idea exactly why he did this but it brings to mind what I have often said, "If you are not praying for your children, who is?" But I also notice that eventually, after all the detestable things Manasseh did, God forgave him.
Praise God that when we follow Him, He blesses and nobody has sinned so much that he cannot be forgiven by our loving Lord!