Asking for a sign is usually not an act of righteousness. This may explain Ahaz' answer in the next verse, I 'will not ask, neither will I tempt the Lord.' However, when the Lord instructs you to ask, you should ask. That the Lord was wearied with Ahaz and his answer is apparent from the ensuing verses, 'is it a small thing for you to weary men, but will ye weary my God also' (v. 13).