What does Josiah's story teach about seeking God's guidance before making decisions? The Scene in a Single Verse “Then the archers shot King Josiah, and the king said to his servants, ‘Take me away, for I am severely wounded.’” (2 Chronicles 35:23) Why a Faithful King Fell • Josiah had just led one of the greatest revivals in Judah’s history (2 Chronicles 34–35). • Pharaoh Neco warned him: “God has ordered me to hurry; stop opposing God” (2 Chronicles 35:21). • Josiah “did not listen to the words of Neco from the mouth of God” (v. 22). • He entered battle anyway, was struck by archers, and died—cut off at age thirty-nine. Key Lesson: Zeal Needs Counsel 1. Even seasoned believers can misstep – Earlier, Josiah inquired of the LORD about the Book of the Law (2 Chronicles 34:21). – This time, he relied on past momentum instead of fresh direction. 2. God sometimes speaks through unexpected channels – An Egyptian king carried a genuine word from God. – Compare Balaam’s donkey (Numbers 22:28) and Cyrus (Isaiah 45:1)—God can use outsiders. 3. Ignoring divine warnings carries real consequences – Proverbs 14:12: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” – Josiah’s premature death ended reforms that might have delayed exile longer. Practical Takeaways for Us • Pause before acting on impulse – Proverbs 3:5-6 urges trust and acknowledgment of the LORD in “all your ways.” • Seek confirmation, not just intuition – James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God… and it will be given.” – Look for Scripture alignment, godly counsel, and inner witness of the Spirit. • Watch for God’s voice in unlikely places – Nathanael said, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” yet Jesus came (John 1:46). – Remain teachable—even critics or strangers may carry a message you need. • Remember past guidance, but ask anew – David “inquired of the LORD” twice about the same enemy (1 Samuel 23:2, 4). – Yesterday’s instructions may not fit today’s situation. Supporting Stories That Echo the Point • Joshua and the Gibeonites (Joshua 9:14) “did not inquire of the LORD,” leading to a binding treaty. • King Asa trusted physicians only, not the LORD, and suffered (2 Chronicles 16:12). • Conversely, Hezekiah sought God when Assyria threatened and was delivered (2 Chronicles 32:20-22). How to Cultivate a “Josiah-Avoiding” Heart 1. Daily intake of Scripture—God’s primary, unchanging voice. 2. Regular prayer that listens as well as speaks. 3. Fellowship with believers who can challenge you. 4. Humility that admits, “I might be wrong; God, correct me.” 5. Quick obedience when guidance becomes clear. Closing Reflection Josiah’s story shouts a sober reminder: spiritual passion must be yoked to continual consultation with God. Every decision—large or small—calls for deliberate seeking of His counsel, receptive ears for surprising messengers, and prompt obedience to His voice. |
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