‘When the king heard the words of the Law, he tore his robes. “Go and inquire of the Lord for me and for the remnant in Israel and Judah about what is written in this book that has been found.”’ 2 Chronicles 34:19, 21 (NIV).
The Book of the Law that Hilkiah the priest found and gave to King Josiah was the book of Deuteronomy. As Josiah read it, he realized the nation had strayed far from the commands of the Lord and something drastic needed to be done.
Josiah chose not to minimize or excuse the sins committed by the Israelite nation, but instead to bring about change. He was so grieved at the people’s neglect of the law that he tore his clothing and cried out to the Lord (verse 27). Because Josiah’s heart was responsive and he humbled himself before God, the Lord heard his cry and showed the king mercy.
True understanding of our sins should lead to ‘godly sorrow that brings repentance and leads to salvation’ (2 Corinthians 7:10). Feeling remorse for the sins we have committed results in changed behavior. As it did with Josiah.
But many people are not sorry for their sin, only sorry for being caught in the act. These are often the same people who are excusing their sin, blaming others, and pretending that it is not so bad. God, however, does not take sin so lightly and He wants us to respond with true repentance.
Prayer:
‘Heavenly Father, when I sin help me to see my actions for what they truly are – an offence to you. Cleanse me from all wrong behavior for I am sorry and want to live my life to honor you.’
In Jesus’ Mighty Name,
AMEN!
Final Thoughts:
Are we seeing our sin for what it truly is? Can we take an honest look at our behavior and ensure that it is right and a reflection of His nature in us? Let’s cease sweeping our sins aside and courageously see our behavior for what it is.
Godly sorrow in Josiah produced an earnestness and eagerness to clear the nation of its sin and come back into a right relationship with God. A truly repentant heart will also produce the same readiness to see intimacy between the Father and ourselves restored.
Be Greatly Blessed!
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