Bible Chapter: II Kings 21 & 22

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    After Hezekiah’s death, his twelve year old son, Manasseh, took over as king.  He was amazingly evil.  This became the darkest era of Judah’s idolatry.  His wickedness was expressed as scorn for God.  He was even more evil than the nations Israel had driven out of the land previously.  He brought God’s judgement on the nation.
    Somehow this wicked king had a godly son.  Manasseh reigned fifty five years and then died.  His eight year old son, Josiah, took over.  Josiah had a tender heart for God.  He was the last righteous king of Judah.  He passionately pursued a genuine relationship with God and guided the nation to do so as well.  He repaired the Temple.  As they did that they discovered the book of The Law of Moses.  This brought on real spiritual reform in the nation.  As the law was being read to the king, he sought God for His directions.  Because the king had a humble heart, God spared him from seeing the judgement that would come.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    We have the perfect example of polar opposites here.  A wicked father and a righteous son.  Manasseh followed the detestable practices of the heathen nations.  Josiah submitted to God’s law and promoted it.  They both influenced many people and left a legacy.  This causes one to think about the legacy that will be left.  As I attend or officiate at funerals, I always think about the person who is gone and the impact they had.  Some cause me to think that I have not done anything for eternity because they have done so much for God.  The time to provide a legacy is now, while I am living.  Obedience to God is always the hightest way of living.

3.  How can I help someone?
    We are all influenced and have influence.  Who are we going to listen to?  Who are we going to impact to bring them to a life worth living? We have to think about these important questions and answer them in such a way that we have no regrets.  To obey God is always better than any other choice we can make.  Serving God never leaves us with regrets.