6. while I protect you and your city from the king of Assyria.
7. Now I will prove to you that I will keep my promise.
8. Do you see the shadow made by the setting sun on the stairway built for King Ahaz? I will make the shadow go back ten steps.Then the shadow went back ten steps.
9. This is what Hezekiah wrote after he got well:
10. I thought I would dieduring my best yearsand stay as a prisoner for everin the world of the dead.
11. I thought I would never againsee you, my Lord,or any of the peoplewho live on this earth.
12. My life was taken from melike the tent that a shepherdpulls up and moves.You cut me off like threadfrom a weaver's loom;you make a wreck of meday and night.
13. Until morning came, I thoughtyou would crush my bonesjust like a hungry lion;both night and dayyou make a wreck of me.
14. I cry like a swallow;I mourn like a dove.My eyes are redfrom looking to you, Lord.I am terribly abused.Please come and help me.
15. There's nothing I can sayin answer to you,since you are the onewho has done this to me.My life has turned sour;I will limp until I die.
16. Your words and your deedsbring life to everyone,including me.Please make me healthyand strong again.
17. It was for my own goodthat I had such hard times.But your love protected mefrom doom in the deep pit,and you turned your eyesaway from my sins.