Today, let’s read together: 2 Kings 23:1-10, 2 Chronicles 34:29-33, 2 Kings 23:21-28, 2 Chronicles 35:1-19, and Nahum chapters 1,2, and 3. Seems like a lot today – but we’re going to make it! Got any highlights to share? Leave a comment if you have something to share with us!
Josiah is such a relief – “no king like him” in his obedience (Kings 23:25) is a BIG statement. However, Judah still has to be dealt with – God was still angry. We have to remember that even though sin is forgiven, it still carries consequences. God is still kind, even though consequences can seem harsh. He must be just, and remember: God was doing all of this without the benefit of Jesus’ sacrifice.
“GOD doesn’t lose his temper. He’s powerful, but it’s a patient power….. GOD is good, a hiding place in tough times. He recognizes and welcomes anyone looking for help, No matter how desperate the trouble” (Nahum 1:2, 7 MSG)
It’s hard for us to understand sometimes that we can repent and be forgiven and yet still suffer consequences from our sins. God is a righteous judge and He loves us. Everything He does is to bring us back into right relationship with Him. Even in the Old Testament, God always welcomed anyone looking for His help! His character and heart toward us does not change.
I started thinking in our last two days of reading the priest Hilkiah found the Book of Law and it was presented the Josiah, why at this time? Why not sooner? Could Israel have been restored sooner? So many questions, but the reality is the laws never went away, they were discarded as the generations passed. It’s a blessing for sure to see Josiah reactivate the Holy presence of GOD back unto his people and the destruction held back until his passing. Todays/yesterday’s take-a-way……fear our Lord? Yes I will. Scared of him? I am not. His love is shown even when angry.
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