Choices

Read

2 Kings 22:2 “He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and followed completely the ways of his father David, not turning aside to the right or to the left.”

Think

In the early days of King Josiah’s reign, he made a courageous decision that set him apart. The scriptures describe him as living in the footsteps of his ancestor David, holding steadfast to what was right. Imagine him flipping through his family’s history like a scrapbook until he found someone worthy of emulation – David. He resolved within himself, “I’m going to be like him.”

The name “Josiah” carries a profound meaning, signifying healing and divine support, which proved true during his reign as the Lord brought restoration to Judah. Remarkably, Josiah ascended to the throne at just eight years of age, inheriting a legacy of wickedness from his father and the kings before him. However, in the eighth year of his reign, something shifted. Josiah’s heart turned toward the Lord, leading him to initiate the restoration of the house of the Lord, a pivotal moment in his journey.

During this restoration process, a remarkable discovery occurred – the lost and forgotten Torah. As the words were read aloud, Josiah was moved to tears. He mourned deeply for the ways he and his people had strayed from God’s path, demonstrating a profound repentance and desire for renewal.

The lesson from Josiah’s life is profound: while we can’t choose our parents, we can choose our mentors and influences. Josiah’s choice of David, a man after God’s own heart, set a new course for him and his kingdom. He dismantled idols, demolished altars, and boldly declared, “I reject what my fathers taught; I embrace God.” Josiah embraced the God of David and made him his own, illustrating the transformative power of choosing God as our own.

As we reflect on Josiah’s journey, let us also consider our own choices. Like Josiah, we have the opportunity to seek the Lord, align our hearts with his ways, and experience transformation from the inside out. Just as everything changed for Josiah when God entered his heart, so too can our lives be transformed when we invite God to dwell within us.

Apply

Josiah took decisive action against idolatry, breaking down altars and symbols of false worship. Identify and remove any idols or distractions in your life that hinder your relationship with God.

Pray

Heavenly Father, help me surround myself with mentors and influences that point me toward you. I ask you for strength to reject anything that weakens my relationship with you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.