Day 217 - 2 Kings 22 - 23:35 & Psalm 31

Julie

This was kind of interesting. Josiah began his reign at the age of 8 and was considered to the most faithful king. He was considered more faithful than even David. He did everything he could to abolish idolatry. Unfortunately, the king that follows him reverts back to the old ways.

This psalm really spoke to me today as I am struggling with things in my life right now. We need to remember in difficult times that God is our rock and his steadfast love will see us through. 

 

 

Michelle

 

I agree, this was interesting.  Once Josiah was presented the Book of the Covenant, he proceeded to rid the people of all the false idols and worship places for them.  Even though he did right in the eyes of the Lord, it seems that God is already so angry that it doesn't change what is coming for the people.  And his son reverts back to evil ways.  The end of this passage made me think of times today and I agree that we are seeing some of these same things happening in today's time and situations.  It's interesting that saying about history repeating itself and we are seeing that in reading the bible and in real life.  It's disappointing to think we cannot come out of this revolving door of evil from those in power.  

 

This passage also has a devotional that I find compelling.  It is titled, "Life Condensed".  It says that Josiah's life is condensed into a single sentence of 31 words.  "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."  It says if your life were condensed into a short synopsis, what would be said of you?  I find this interesting also, "As we care for our families and do our work, it's easy to become sidetracked from our primary purpose:  pleasing God."  I think many people, myself included forget this at times.  Our first focus should be God.  

 

The last verse in the psalm really sums it up.  Be Strong and take hear, all you who hope in the Lord.  Throughout this psalm, David is sharing some of the things he has or is going thru, yet he continually turns to the Lord for help and comfort.