19:9 And when {e} he heard say of Tirhakah king of Ethiopia, {f} Behold, he is come out to fight against thee: he sent messengers again unto Hezekiah, saying,
(e) That is, Sennacherib.
(f) For the kings of Ethiopia and Egypt joined together against the king of Assyria because of his oppression of other countries.
19:8-19 Prayer is the never-failing resource of the tempted Christian, whether struggling with outward difficulties or inward foes. At the mercy-seat of his almighty Friend he opens his heart, spreads his case, like Hezekiah, and makes his appeal. When he can discern that the glory of God is engaged on his side, faith gains the victory, and he rejoices that he shall never be moved. The best pleas in prayer are taken from God's honour.
