December 31, 2023
What does it say?
After Josiah’s death, there was a succession of evil kings. Despite God’s repeated warnings, the people turned away and were taken away into captivity.
What does it mean?
King Josiah’s life was dedicated to the spiritual restoration of God’s people. After his death, the nation lived under a succession of kings who did evil in the Lord’s eyes. God chose to respond with grace in the face of open, defiant sin. Even so, the people wouldn’t listen. The compassionate God, who very much wanted a relationship with His people, could no longer refrain from discipline. The punishment was severe but necessary to preserve His Name, the integrity of His chosen people, and His promise of a Messiah.
How should I respond?
How often is your first response anger rather than compassion? It can seem almost justified in the face of a great offense. But reacting in anger is not what God desires nor does it reflect His character. In what situations do you need to be more longsuffering with others as God was with Israel? How often has the Lord given you multiple chances to obey in areas regarding your thought life, entertainment choices, or sinful attitudes? God desires for His followers to show the same grace and mercy that He has shown to them.