In what ways can we apply Josiah's commitment to God's Word in our lives? Setting the Scene “Then the king summoned all the elders of Judah and Jerusalem.” (2 Kings 23:1) Josiah’s first impulse after discovering the neglected Book of the Law was to bring God’s people together around Scripture. His pattern offers timeless, practical steps for us today. Rediscover and Read the Word • Intentionally open the Bible in community—family, church, study group. • Prioritize public reading (2 Kings 23:2; 1 Timothy 4:13). • Treat Scripture as living, not merely historical (Hebrews 4:12). • Let the text set the agenda rather than current trends or preferences. Respond with Repentance and Renewal • Josiah “made a covenant before the LORD” (2 Kings 23:3). • Personal application: confess areas where God’s commands have been sidelined (1 John 1:9). • Renew wholehearted obedience, trusting God’s Word as completely true (Psalm 119:160). Remove Competing Allegiances • Josiah tore down idols (2 Kings 23:4-14). • Identify modern “altars”—media, habits, relationships—that rival Scripture’s authority. • Eliminate what undermines devotion, not just manage it (Colossians 3:5). Re-establish God-Centered Worship • Josiah cleared the temple for proper worship (2 Kings 23:4-7). • Ensure church gatherings and personal devotion are Word-driven rather than entertainment-driven. • Align songs, prayers, and teaching with biblical truth (John 4:24). Remember and Celebrate Redemption • Josiah reinstated the Passover (2 Kings 23:21-23). • Regularly commemorate Christ’s sacrifice through Communion and daily gratitude (1 Corinthians 11:24-26). • Let remembrance fuel present obedience (Titus 2:11-14). Reach the Next Generation • Josiah gathered “all the people, from the least to the greatest” (2 Kings 23:2). • Share Scripture stories at home (Deuteronomy 6:6-9). • Model reverence for God’s Word, shaping young hearts early (2 Timothy 3:15). Rely on Scripture Daily • Make the Bible your primary guide—“a lamp to my feet” (Psalm 119:105). • Memorize and meditate, trusting its sufficiency for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Let daily choices reflect the covenant commitment Josiah exemplified. Applying Josiah’s example means elevating Scripture to its rightful place, acting decisively on what it says, and inviting others to join in wholehearted obedience. |
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