Read 2 Chronicles 34:1-13
Here we go again. Does it feel a bit like “déjà vu?” King Josiah takes it upon himself to make sure that his kingdom is cleansed from all the pagan articles and distractions away from the one true God. We’ve seen this pattern repeat itself before. One king destroys the idols, and another rebuilds them. No wonder the people were disillusioned. The kingly leadership was never consistent.
King Josiah’s intentions were good in purifying the land once again, including the temple. Even as a young king, Josiah wasn’t afraid to make some bold moves. What do you think happened to the people who were worshiping in “pagan style?” Did they go into hiding and continue with their rituals and allegiance to false gods?
Hiding is often what Christians do when facing persecution for their faith. We turn in to avoid the ridicule, arrest, or even death. I think of the early church and the apostles’ fear after Jesus was so brutally killed. They were likely wondering if they would be next. Hiding was what made sense, until it didn’t. I imagine Josiah expected success because of his allegiance to God and wasn’t going to hide.
In our story today, everything seems peaceful again. We don’t see any bad attitudes in the people assigned to the given tasks. The leaders were “entrusted” with funds for the projects, and the “workers served faithfully.” Josiah is another good king who seeks the LORD.
How do these verses speak to you? Is there something in your life that needs to be purged to make your faith walk stronger? Are distractions keeping you from building a stronger relationship with God? Or are you hiding your faith out of fear? Is there any basis to that fear?
Some people will go into hiding to avoid getting right with God. They will be in denial about the importance of following Jesus and humbling themselves before God. It’s easy in our world today to ignore God, the distractions are plentiful. How do you stand strong?
Spending time in God’s word helps me. It affirms what I already believe about the nature of God and how he desires to be in relationship with me. God’s word also shines light on the truth and the simplicity of the gospel. We shouldn’t overthink it, but trust and obey. We can follow the examples of godly leaders, like Josiah.
Let’s pray. LORD, your wisdom astounds me. Thank you for your Word and how it sustains me. Nourish me with your truth and help me to stand firm against the distractions trying to pull me off course. Restore my joy and ignite my passion to shine for you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
