2 Kings 22 - 3.7.25

Scripture: ‭‭2 Kings‬ ‭22‬:‭18‬-‭20‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“Tell the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the Lord, ‘This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says concerning the words you heard: Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before the Lord when you heard what I have spoken against this place and its people—that they would become a curse and be laid waste—and because you tore your robes and wept in my presence, I also have heard you, declares the Lord. Therefore I will gather you to your ancestors, and you will be buried in peace. Your eyes will not see all the disaster I am going to bring on this place.’ ” So they took her answer back to the king.”

Observation:

Josiah became king when he was 8 years old and he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. The two previous kings had done evil. I would love to know what made the difference. 

“In the eighth year of his reign, while he was still young, he began to seek the God of his father David. In his twelfth year he began to purge Judah and Jerusalem of high places, Asherah poles and idols.” ‭‭2 Chronicles‬ ‭34‬:‭3‬ ‭NIV‬‬

He was 16 when he began seeking the Lord. In his eighteenth year as king at 24 years old he began to restore the temple. Workers found the Book of the Law. When it was brought to him by the priest and read to him he believed and knew Judah had broken the covenant. He repented and sent the priest to inquire of the Lord. God saw Josiah’s response to hearing His word and said He would not see the disaster and would die in peace. 

Application:

God’s Word is powerful. He does what He promises. However, over and over again we see God holding back His hand when people humble themselves before Him repenting of their sin. 

“He is the same yesterday, today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8) which means He still does the same today. 

God’s word has great impact. Its power can bring repentance. Also, young people can seek God and be the vessels of change. We need to value all they have to offer. This is not only a reminder for me to be reading the Word myself, but also its power when I share it with others. 

Prayer:

Lord, Thank you for the ways you are always working. You use young and old to do your work. You caused Josiah’s heart to turn to you when others before him had done evil. Please work in those hearts who I’ve been praying for and have not yet turned to you. May I find creative ways to share your Word. Please keep me humble and show me areas of sin I need to repent of. You brought a season of peace to a nation because Josiah repented. Please bring peace to those who need you. I am available to be an agent of change. Give me your voice and wisdom. Thank you for your grace and faithfulness. Amen

- Cindy Howard