How can we ensure God's Word is central in our daily decision-making? Setting the Scene: A Rediscovered Book During Josiah’s temple repairs, Hilkiah found the forgotten Book of the Law. Shaphan read it aloud to the king, and the rediscovered Word ignited sweeping change. Neglect ended; Scripture regained the throne. Key Verse: 2 Kings 22:10 “Moreover, Shaphan the scribe informed the king, ‘Hilkiah the priest has given me a book.’ And Shaphan read it in the presence of the king.” Josiah’s Example: Immediate, Humble Obedience • He listened attentively to the full reading. • He tore his clothes in repentance once conviction hit (v. 11). • He sought prophetic counsel, treating Scripture as supreme (vv. 12-13). • He enacted reform, removing idols and renewing covenant worship (chap. 23). Hear, humble, consult, obey—the sequence that keeps God’s Word central. Core Principle: Scripture Leads, Not Follows All Scripture is God-breathed and equips for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). God’s Word shapes plans; plans never shape God’s Word. Five Daily Habits to Keep the Word Central 1. Open the Bible before the calendar. 2. Read consecutively so God sets the agenda. 3. Note one takeaway and translate it into action before day’s end. 4. Memorize key verses; recall them in decision moments (Psalm 119:11). 5. Share your intended obedience with an accountability partner. Decision Filter: Scripture-Based Criteria • Direct commands that prescribe or forbid. • Universal principles governing motives, purity, stewardship, witness. • Alignment with Christ’s character revealed in the Gospels. • Submission to the Spirit who recalls truth and guides (John 14:26). Complementary Scriptures • Psalm 119:105 – Word as lamp and light. • Joshua 1:8 – Meditate day and night; prosper in obedience. • Hebrews 4:12 – Word penetrates motives. • Colossians 3:16 – Let the Word richly dwell. • Proverbs 3:5-6 – Acknowledge Him; He straightens paths. • James 1:22 – Doers, not merely hearers. Promises Linked to Obedience • Success and courage (Joshua 1:8). • Fruitful stability (Psalm 1:1-3). • Spirit-empowered discernment (John 14:26). • Complete equipping (2 Timothy 3:17). Final Encouragement: Living Like Josiah Every time the Bible opens, the scene in Josiah’s court replays. Listening, humbling, consulting, and obeying keeps Scripture in the driver’s seat. The same God who reformed a nation delights to guide believers who refuse to move without His Word. |
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