What have they seen in thine house? 2 Kings 20:15.

This question was asked of King Hezekiah more than 2,600 years ago. The Scripture says of him that he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord." None of the kings of Israel experienced greater demonstrations of God's care and power. When King Sennacherib of Assyria invaded Judah and laid siege to Jerusalem, Hezekiah placed his trust in God. The Assyrian army was overthrown in one of the most remarkable miracles found in the Bible. When Hezekiah lay sick unto death, God healed him miraculously and added another fifteen years to his life. Other countries and leaders heard of what God had done to and for him. They marveled at the reports of these miracles.

The king of Babylon was so impressed that he sent ambassadors and gifts to Hezekiah. Now came the great test. Hezekiah was flattered that the great empire of Babylon should send representatives to his little kingdom. Just what did Hezekiah do? He "showed them all the house of his precious things, the silver, and the gold" (2 Kings 20:13). He failed to bear witness to the love and mercy God had shown him. He neglected to speak of God's marvelous grace and healing power.

So Isaiah asked, What have they seen in thy house—the fear of God or the greatness of man? Proof of divine love or of human folly? The love of luxury or love of the Lord? The greatness of God or the pride of men? Just what have they seen in thy house?

This question has lost none of its significance. Let us answer it honestly relative to our own home and situation. What testimony do we bear in our homes? The church can never be any stronger than the moral and spiritual stature of its families.

Jesus Christ has no beatitude for the clever or the rich. He has no objection to our having nice homes and gardens, but these are not the highest things. A home where the righteous love of God abounds, where He is worshiped and revered; a home that fears God, drinks deeply of the Water of Life. These things are fundamental.