Reading the Bible through with me? Then grab your pen and journal and read 2 Kings 22-25. In this reading, eight-year-old Josiah becomes the king of reformation and revival. He had repaired the Temple and the Book of the Law had been found. If you go back to Deuteronomy 17:18, we find that any king who would rule over Israel was required, as a first order of business, to read and write down his own copy of the Law. We know this was not carried out in Israel or Judah for hundreds of years because so many kings, even in the Davidic line did evil in the sight of God. The Kings had failed to hide His word in their hearts (Psalm 119:11). But Josiah was different. His heart was toward Yahweh. He repented of their national sins, reinstated the Passover observance, read all the words of the Law to his people, and pledged his allegiance to Yahweh alone. All of this did not spare Judah from judgement and fall. Their sins, their idolatry, their moral corruption was more than God was willing to forebear. So, Yahweh's promise to Josiah was that He would not exercise judgement during Josiah's reign. Josiah reigned for 31 years. 23:25 is a great complimentary verse. “Never before had there been a king like Josiah, who turned to the LORD with all his heart, soul, and strength, obeying all the laws of Moses. And there has never been a king like him since.” God give us more men like Josiah, who live Your word, love You with all their hearts, souls, minds, and strength. Perhaps, in your mercy, our faithful prayers, love of Your word and obedient lifestyles will help to bring about reformation and revival in our land. Rise Up, men of God!! Your families, communities, churches, and nations need you to lead like Josiah!
