Isaiah Chapter 38

Isaiah 38 Summary: Meaning, Themes & Reflection

Explore this passage of Scripture with its full text and meaning. Read these 22 Bible verses from Isaiah and discover their timeless wisdom.

ShareTweetShare
Verse card
Ask AI about this chapter
Size

Select text within one numbered verse, then choose Compare Versions.

1. In those days Hezekiah became mortally ill. The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz came to him and said, “This is what the LORD says: ‘Put your house in order, for you are about to die; you will not recover.’” 2. Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the LORD, 3. saying, “Please, O LORD, remember how I have walked before You faithfully and with wholehearted devotion; I have done what was good in Your sight.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly. 4. And the word of the LORD came to Isaiah, saying, 5. “Go and tell Hezekiah that this is what the LORD, the God of your father David, says: ‘I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears. Behold, I will add fifteen years to your life. 6. And I will deliver you and this city from the hand of the king of Assyria. I will defend this city. 7. This will be a sign to you from the LORD that He will do what He has promised: 8. I will make the sun’s shadow that falls on the stairway of Ahaz go back ten steps.’” So the sunlight went back the ten steps it had descended. 9. This is a writing by Hezekiah king of Judah after his illness and recovery: 10. I said, “In the prime of my life I must go through the gates of Sheol and be deprived of the remainder of my years.” 11. I said, “I will never again see the LORD, even the LORD, in the land of the living; I will no longer look on mankind with those who dwell in this world. 12. My dwelling has been picked up and removed from me like a shepherd’s tent. I have rolled up my life like a weaver; He cuts me off from the loom; from day until night You make an end of me. 13. I composed myself until the morning. Like a lion He breaks all my bones; from day until night You make an end of me. 14. I chirp like a swallow or crane; I moan like a dove. My eyes grow weak as I look upward. O Lord, I am oppressed; be my security.” 15. What can I say? He has spoken to me, and He Himself has done this. I will walk slowly all my years because of the anguish of my soul. 16. O Lord, by such things men live, and in all of them my spirit finds life. You have restored me to health and have let me live. 17. Surely for my own welfare I had such great anguish; but Your love has delivered me from the pit of oblivion, for You have cast all my sins behind Your back. 18. For Sheol cannot thank You; Death cannot praise You. Those who descend to the Pit cannot hope for Your faithfulness. 19. The living, only the living, can thank You, as I do today; fathers will tell their children about Your faithfulness. 20. The LORD will save me; we will play songs on stringed instruments all the days of our lives in the house of the LORD. 21. Now Isaiah had said, “Prepare a lump of pressed figs and apply it to the boil, and he will recover.” 22. And Hezekiah had asked, “What will be the sign that I will go up to the house of the LORD?”

Jump to a verse

22 verses
Isaiah 38:1Isaiah 38:2Isaiah 38:3Isaiah 38:4Isaiah 38:5Isaiah 38:6Isaiah 38:7Isaiah 38:8Isaiah 38:9Isaiah 38:10Isaiah 38:11Isaiah 38:12Isaiah 38:13Isaiah 38:14Isaiah 38:15Isaiah 38:16Isaiah 38:17Isaiah 38:18Isaiah 38:19Isaiah 38:20Isaiah 38:21Isaiah 38:22

Today's verse of the day

When you want one passage to carry out of this chapter, read the daily Bible verse with its reflection and prayer.

Today's verse of the day

Key Themes and Application

Background

This chapter of Scripture reveals important truths about God's character and His relationship with His people. The 22 Bible verses in this passage offer wisdom that applies to our daily lives.

Main Message

This passage contains timeless wisdom that speaks to believers across generations.

Life Application

  • Read these verses slowly and prayerfully, asking God to speak to you
  • Consider how this passage applies to your current circumstances
  • Journal about what God is teaching you through this Scripture
  • Share these insights with friends or in a small group setting

Reflection Questions

  • What stands out to you most in these 22 Bible verses?
  • How does this passage challenge or encourage you today?
  • What is God inviting you to do or believe through this Scripture?
  • Who in your life needs to hear the message of these verses?

About These 22 Bible Verses

Reading the Bible is more than just checking off a task on your list. When you open these 22 Bible verses from Isaiah, you are entering into a conversation with God that has spanned thousands of years.

This chapter of Scripture invites you to slow down and listen. The words on these pages have comforted, challenged, and guided countless believers throughout history. As you read this passage, remember that God speaks through His Word to meet you right where you are.

Many people find it helpful to read these verses multiple times. First, read to understand the overall message. Then read again to notice specific words or phrases that stand out. Finally, read once more asking God to show you how this Scripture applies to your life today.

Why Study This Passage?

For Personal Growth

These 22 Bible verses offer wisdom for your journey. As you meditate on this passage, God uses His Word to shape your character, deepen your faith, and guide your decisions.

For Group Study

This chapter provides rich material for discussion. Reading these Bible verses with others allows you to gain new perspectives and encourage one another in faith.

For Teaching and Preaching

Pastors and teachers find in this passage timeless truths to share. The themes in these verses speak to people of all ages and backgrounds.

For Prayer and Worship

Let these words become your prayer. As you read, turn the verses into conversations with God, thanking Him for His promises and seeking His guidance.

Verse-by-verse Study
Get detailed AI breakdown
Pray this Chapter
Guided prayer session
Previous
Chapter 37
All Chapters
Next
Chapter 39

Related Guides from the Hub

View all

From Tool to Companion: Why the Future of Bible Study is Conversational

Discover why an AI spiritual companion changes how you connect with Scripture. Move from basic keyword search to deep, personalized conversations.

AIBible Study

10 Powerful Opening Prayers for Bible Study: Simple Examples & Group Templates

Need help starting your Bible study? Discover 10 powerful opening prayers for Bible study, including simple examples, group templates, and quick guides.

PrayerBible Study

5 Biblical Prayers for Anxiety: Finding Peace When You're Overwhelmed

Anxiety can feel paralyzing. Here are 5 scripture-based prayers to help you trade panic for God's peace today.

AnxietyPrayer

Related Topics to Explore

View all

Anxiety & Peace

Comforting scriptures and prayers for worry, fear, and stress.

Sleep & Rest

Bedtime verses and calming prayers to quiet your mind.

Gratitude

Build a thankful heart with verses and simple practices.

Popular Chapters

Psalms 23
The Lord is My Shepherd
John 3
For God So Loved the World
Romans 8
More Than Conquerors
1 Corinthians 13
The Love Chapter
Philippians 4
Rejoice in the Lord
Proverbs 3
Trust in the Lord