Isaiah 7:12

12 But Ahaz said, "I'd never do that. I'd never make demands like that on God!"

Isaiah 7:12 Meaning and Commentary

Isaiah 7:12

But Ahaz said, I will not ask
That is, a sign or miracle to be wrought; being unwilling to take the advice to be still and quiet, and make no preparation for war, or seek out for help from the Assyrians, and to rely upon the promise and power of God, and therefore chose not to have it confirmed by a sign; adding as an excuse, neither will I tempt the Lord,
by asking a sign; suggesting that this was contrary to the command of God, ( Deuteronomy 6:16 ) so pretending religion and reverence of God; whereas, to ask a sign of God, when it was offered, could not be reckoned a tempting him; but, on the contrary, to refuse one; when offered, argued great stubbornness and ingratitude, as Calvin well observes.

Isaiah 7:12 In-Context

10 God spoke again to Ahaz. This time he said,

11 "Ask for a sign from your God. Ask anything. Be extravagant. Ask for the moon!"

12 But Ahaz said, "I'd never do that. I'd never make demands like that on God!"

13 So Isaiah told him, "Then listen to this, government of David! It's bad enough that you make people tired with your pious, timid hypocrisies, but now you're making God tired.

14 So the Master is going to give you a sign anyway. Watch for this: A girl who is presently a virgin will get pregnant. She'll bear a son and name him Immanuel (God-With-Us).