Repent Upon Hearing

Hilkiah the high priest said to Shaphan the secretary, "I have found the Book of the Law in the temple of the Lord." He gave it to Shaphan, who read it. When the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his robes. 'Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I have spoken against this place and its people, that they would become accursed and laid waste, and because you tore your robes and wept in my presence, I have heard you,' declares the Lord.
2 Kings 22: 8, 11, 19

Josiah was the king at this time. he took that position when he was only 8 years old. he followed a few very lousy kings who desecrated the Temple, made shrines to false gods and encouraged worship to Asherah poles. but josiah stepped up to the plate with prudence and wisdom. he cleaned out all the false worship shrines, poles and everything else used to distract from worship of the Lord. he ordered the priests and leaders to clean out the Temple, and Hilkiah found the book of Law. i guess it must have been hidden, neglected for far too long, dusty...

but then something amazing happened. the Word was opened, hearts were changed, and God turned his wrath from Josiah. a miracle happened. often that is what the Word does for my heart as well. my heart transforms into soft clay instead of a dried up clump of stone. the Word is still living and active. (heb. 4:12) it still changes hearts of stone to tears of love. it converts years of abuse and torture into compassion for the violators. we truly worship a magnificent Savior!

Jesus,
i know that You had an active part in finding that lost book. You opened the Word so that josiah could come before You in his brokenness. You have done the same for me. i once was lost, but now i'm found in You. i was stone, now i'm pliable clay. You continue to annihilate my wretchedness. be praised for Your transforming power. may You continue to move among us. i love You for what You've done for me.
in Jesus Name ~ Amen!

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*Steven *Zack *Herb