Destruction: A Study in 2 KingsNäide

What does it say?

A copy of the Book of the Law was found and given to Josiah during temple renovations. The reading of the Law led him to repent and seek counsel from God.

What does it mean?

The Word of God has a powerful impact on those who value it. God’s Word exposes sin, brings about repentance, gives hope and instruction, and allows the reader to know the one and only true God. In the case of Israel, they forgot God’s Word. As a teenager, Josiah “began to seek the God of his father David” (2 Chron. 34:3). After hearing God’s Law, Josiah, shocked and grief-stricken, determined to reintroduce the Law to the nation. This reintroduction led to humility, repentance, and a decision to re-establish communication between the king of God’s people and God Himself.

How should I respond?

God uses His Word to establish and maintain His relationship with us. He is taking this opportunity to reintroduce you to His Word. Read it. Study it. Think about it. Ask God to put His words in your heart and mind so they will transform you. Without His Word, we can easily slip into a life of compromise and poor decision-making. Take a moment to reread today’s passage. Ask God to speak to you and guide you. Start writing down what He shows you each day, and act on what He reveals. How will today’s passage have a lasting impact on your relationship with the Lord?