December 28, 2023
What does it say?
For 31 years Josiah reigned in Jerusalem and did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. He cleansed the land of idols and restored the temple.
What does it mean?
For many years the kings of Israel led the nation into various forms of idolatry. The landscape, once defined by the unmatched splendor of the house of God, was now littered with idols and pagan altars of worship. Josiah’s radical approach to the elimination of these abominations showed that his heart was dedicated to ridding the nation of anything that offended God. But true change meant not only the complete elimination of everything that drew the people away from God but also the restoration of the only legitimate house of worship – the temple of the Lord.
How should I respond?
Dealing with spiritual distractions can be difficult. It’s easy to believe that ignoring them is enough. Like Josiah, we need to recognize that any form of sin that isn’t completely removed represents a future opportunity to sin. What temptation needs to be removed from your life with the focus and intensity shown by Josiah? Any habit you remove needs to be replaced with a new one: set aside time for daily Bible study and prayer, join a small group, or find a place to volunteer in your church. Though this kind of commitment is challenging, the effect on your relationship with God will be life-changing.