Josiah did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and followed the ways of his ancestor David, not turning aside to the right or to the left. – 2 Kings 22:2
Josiah’s Righteous Reign
As followers of Christ, we can learn much from King Josiah, who is known for his unwavering commitment to serving God. He was only eight years old when he began his reign, and even at that young age, he displayed remarkable qualities of obedience and faithfulness. His determination to restore the worship of the one true God serves as a powerful reminder for us today. Josiah didn’t just passively accept the status quo; instead, he took active steps to eradicate idolatry in Judah. His reign exemplifies a commitment to spiritual revival and genuine worship, inspiring us to seek a deeper relationship with God and encouraging us to lead with righteousness and integrity.
2 Kings 22:2
Josiah did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and followed the ways of his ancestor David, not turning aside to the right or to the left. – 2 Kings 22:2
2 Chronicles 34:1
Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem thirty-one years. – 2 Chronicles 34:1
2 Chronicles 34:2
He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and followed the instructions given to him by his ancestor David. – 2 Chronicles 34:2
2 Chronicles 34:3
In the eighth year of his reign, while he was still young, he began to seek the God of his ancestor David; and in the twelfth year he began to purge Judah and Jerusalem of high places, Asherah poles, and idols. – 2 Chronicles 34:3
2 Kings 23:24
Furthermore, Josiah removed the mediums and spiritists, the household gods, the idols, and all the abominable practices that were seen in the land of Judah and in Jerusalem, in order to fulfill the requirements of the Law written in the book that Hilkiah the priest had discovered in the temple of the Lord. – 2 Kings 23:24
Josiah’s Restoration of Worship
Josiah’s dedication to restoring true worship in Israel is a remarkable model for us as we strive for spiritual renewal in our own lives. In a time when the people had turned away from God, he sought to bring them back to the heart of worship. We too can take inspiration from his actions. By seeking and implementing genuine worship practices, we might rekindle our own relationship with God and encourage those around us to prioritize their faith. Through his reforms, we see a commitment to purifying the worship environment and a desire to be faithful to God’s commandments. This teaches us that restoring worship goes beyond mere practices; it requires an authentic heart and commitment towards fostering a community that honors God.
2 Chronicles 34:8
In the eighteenth year of Josiah’s reign, to purify the land and the temple, he sent Shaphan son of Azaliah, and Maaseiah the governor of the city, with Joah son of Joahaz the recorder, to repair the temple of the Lord his God. – 2 Chronicles 34:8
2 Kings 23:1
Then the king called together all the elders of Judah and Jerusalem. – 2 Kings 23:1
2 Kings 23:2
He went up to the temple of the Lord with the people of Judah, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the priests, and the prophets—all the people from the least to the greatest. He read in their hearing all the words of the Book of the Covenant, which had been found in the temple of the Lord. – 2 Kings 23:2
2 Chronicles 34:31
He stood by his post and renewed the covenant in the presence of the Lord to follow the Lord and keep his commands, statutes, and decrees with all his heart and all his soul, and to obey the words of the covenant written in this book. – 2 Chronicles 34:31
2 Kings 23:21
The king gave this order to all the people: “Celebrate the Passover to the Lord your God, as it is written in this Book of the Covenant.” – 2 Kings 23:21
Josiah’s Heart for the Law
One of the most transformative moments during Josiah’s reign occurred when the Book of the Law was discovered in the temple. This pivotal encounter speaks volumes about the importance of God’s Word in our lives. Much like Josiah, we are called to have a sincere heart that delights in the Law of the Lord. The discovery ignited a spiritual awakening that led Josiah on a path toward repentance and reform. We can reflect on this by being open to God’s Word in our hearts and minds, leading us to genuine transformation. It’s a reminder that seeking God often opens the door to profound insights and changes that can radically shift the direction of our lives and our communities.
2 Kings 22:8
Hilkiah the high priest said to Shaphan the secretary, “I have found the Book of the Law in the temple of the Lord.” He gave it to Shaphan, who read it. – 2 Kings 22:8
2 Kings 22:11
When the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his robes. – 2 Kings 22:11
2 Kings 22:12
He gave these orders to Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Abdon son of Micah, Shaphan the secretary, and Asaiah the king’s attendant: – 2 Kings 22:12
2 Chronicles 34:19
When the king heard the words of the Law, he tore his robes. – 2 Chronicles 34:19
2 Chronicles 34:21
Go and inquire of the Lord for me and for the remnant in Israel and for those left in Judah about what is written in this book that has been found. Great is the Lord’s anger that has poured out on us because those who have gone before us did not obey the words of this book; they have not acted in accordance with all that is written there concerning us. – 2 Chronicles 34:21
Josiah’s Influence on Future Generations
Josiah’s faithfulness not only impacted his immediate community but also set an example for generations to come. He worked hard to guide his people back to God, demonstrating that our actions can create a lasting legacy. When we choose to live according to God’s will, we produce fruit in our spiritual lives that others can observe and follow. This journey of faith is not just about our personal relationship with God; it also involves our roles as mentors, friends, and family members in lifting others toward a higher calling. Just like Josiah, we have the chance to inspire those around us to seek God wholeheartedly, emphasizing the importance of righteous living.
2 Kings 23:25
Neither before nor after Josiah was there a king like him who turned to the Lord as he did—with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength, in accordance with all the Law of Moses. – 2 Kings 23:25
Jeremiah 22:15
“Does it make you a king to have more and more cedar? Did not your father Josiah have food and drink? He did what was right and just, so all went well with him. – Jeremiah 22:15
Jeremiah 22:16
He defended the cause of the poor and needy, and so all went well. Is that not what it means to know me?” declares the Lord. – Jeremiah 22:16
2 Chronicles 35:3
He said to the Levites who instructed all Israel and who had been consecrated to the Lord: “Put the sacred ark in the temple that Solomon son of David king of Israel built. It is no longer to be carried around on your shoulders. Now serve the Lord your God and his people Israel. – 2 Chronicles 35:3
2 Kings 23:3
The king stood by the pillar and renewed the covenant in the presence of the Lord to follow the Lord and keep his commands, statutes, and decrees with all his heart and all his soul, thus confirming the words of the covenant written in this book. Then all the people pledged themselves to the covenant. – 2 Kings 23:3
Josiah’s Commitment to Justice
Justice and righteousness are cornerstones of God’s kingdom, and King Josiah took this to heart. Throughout his reign, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to these principles. When he sought to purify his land from idolatry and injustice, he showed how a genuine leader can advocate for God’s ways and laws. As we follow his example, it encourages us to speak out against injustice and advocate for the marginalized in our communities. Our faith calls us to be stewards of justice by actively standing against wrongdoings and supporting those who cannot defend themselves. Embracing Josiah’s commitment not only honors God but also fosters a society that resonates with His love and righteousness.
2 Kings 23:25
Neither before nor after Josiah was there a king like him who turned to the Lord as he did—with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength, in accordance with all the Law of Moses. – 2 Kings 23:25
2 Chronicles 34:32
Then Josiah had everyone in Jerusalem and Benjamin pledge themselves to it. The people of Jerusalem did this in accordance with the covenant of God, the God of their ancestors. – 2 Chronicles 34:32
1 Kings 18:21
Elijah went before the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.” But the people said nothing. – 1 Kings 18:21
2 Kings 22:17
Because they have forsaken me and burned incense to other gods and aroused my anger by all that their hands have made, my anger will be poured out on this place and will not be quenched. – 2 Kings 22:17
Psalm 82:3
Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. – Psalm 82:3
The Legacy of Josiah’s Faithfulness
Josiah’s story teaches us that every decision we make can impact not only our lives but also the lives of those around us. His faithfulness left a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire us today. As we aspire to build our own legacies, we must understand the significance of our choices and actions. While we may not be kings or queens, our influence can have a ripple effect on our families, communities, and even future generations. By nurturing our faith and committing to God’s ways, we can leave behind a legacy characterized by love, righteousness, and devotion as we impact the world like Josiah did.
2 Kings 23:29
While Josiah was king, Pharaoh Neco king of Egypt went up to fight at Carchemish on the Euphrates, and Josiah marched out to meet him in battle. But Neco faced him and killed him at Megiddo. – 2 Kings 23:29
2 Chronicles 35:19
The Passover was celebrated in the eighteenth year of Josiah’s reign. – 2 Chronicles 35:19
2 Chronicles 35:16
So at the time the service of the Lord was reestablished. And all the Israelites who had returned from exile celebrated the Passover with joy. – 2 Chronicles 35:16
2 Chronicles 35:7
Josiah provided for the laypeople lambs and young goats from the flock for all who were there to celebrate the Passover, for all who were there, according to their families, offering a sacrifice to the Lord. – 2 Chronicles 35:7
Micah 3:8
But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin. – Micah 3:8
Final Thoughts
The story of Josiah is one filled with loyalty, restoration, and hope. As we reflect on his life, it encourages us to strive for righteousness and spiritual revival. His dedication to God inspires us to open our hearts to His Word and make the necessary changes in our lives. Following Josiah’s example can lead us to foster a strong community rooted in justice and love. No matter where we are in our faith walk, we have the opportunity to build a legacy of faithfulness. Together, let us pursue a deeper relationship with God that can impact both our lives and the lives of those around us.
As we close this chapter, I invite you to explore more topics about faith, love, and the stories of the Bible that continue to inspire and uplift. Together, we can deepen our understanding and commitment to live as examples of Christ’s love.