In the days of Hezekiah and Isaiah, the Assyrians were fearsome enemies with mighty armies. They invaded Judah and mocked them and mocked God (Isaiah 36). In response to their blasphemous insults, Hezekiah tore his robes and went to God for help (Isaiah 37). God, acting as a Father with Judah as His daughter, responded in Isaiah 37:22-23:
ââŚthis is the word that the Lord has spoken against him: âShe has despised you and mocked you, the virgin daughter of Zion; She has shaken her head behind you, The daughter of Jerusalem! Whom have you reproached and blasphemed? And against whom have you raised your voice and haughtily lifted up your eyes? Against the Holy One of Israel!ââ
When Assyria belittled and insulted Judah, God took it personally. When Assyria mocked their trust in God, God took it personally (Is. 36:4, 14-15). God heard the Assyrians as they described Him as no better than the idols of pagan nations (Is. 36:19-20). God responded with strength and defended His honor by defending His people (Is. 37:33-35).
After committing to defend the city, the angel of the Lord went out and killed 185,000 in the Assyrian camp. Sennacherib, king of Assyria, retreated to Nineveh, where his sons killed him as he worshipped in the house of Nisroch, his chosen idol (Is. 37:36-38).
God takes offense when His children are belittled for their faith in Him. In compassion, He waits until the appointed day to repay those who continue mocking Him (2 Pet. 3:9; 2 Thess. 1:6-10). If you have been laughing at Christians, please reconsider your path and be saved through obedience to the gospel. God knows if you are a Christian suffering insult because of your faith. Continue faithfully serving Him, and He will reward you (1 Pet. 4:19).