Praise God for this lesson found in 2 Kings 22: we are very fortunate to have His Word! You can buy a Bible in this country for less than $2. It is not illegal to possess it, which is the case in many countries of our world today. Most of the time, I use my phone App and I love it! I do love the FCA Bible that was given to me as a present, as well. We have many translations from which to choose. I am thankful to find translations that help me better understand the Bible. My preference is the New Living Translation, but I like seeking the truth through other translations as well.
There are many lesson from 2 Kings 22. King Josiah is 26 years old, and he is in his eighteenth year of his reign in Jerusalem. Here, we find that he made plans for restoration of the Temple, which was a good decision in itself. One which showed his love for God. As a result, Hilkiah, the high priest, found the Book of the Law in the LORD's Temple. He gave it to Shapan, the court secretary, who read it to King Josiah. In verse 11, Josiah tore his clothes in despair when he heard what was written in the Book of the Law. Upon Josiah's orders, Hilkiah, Ahikam, Acbor, Shapan, and Asaiah went to the temple to inquire about the words written in the scroll. They consulted with the prophet Huldah. She interpreted the message from the LORD. The message in 2 Kings 22:16 & 17: This is what the Lord says: I am going to bring disaster on this city and its people. All the words written in the scroll that the king of Judah has read will come true. For my people have abandoned me and offered sacrifices to pagan gods, and I am very angry with them for everything they have done. My anger will burn against this place, and it will not be quenched.
I am thinking, wow, if they wouldn't have found these scrolls, they wouldn't have heard this harsh message. True, but it is ALWAYS good to hear the truth of the LORD! And, sometimes there is also good news to follow. That is what happens here!
In 2 Kings 22:18, Huldah tells the group to give the king of Judah the following message in verses 19 & 20. You were sorry and humbled yourself before the Lord when you heard what I said against this city and its people---that this land would be cursed and become desolate. You tore your clothing in despair and wept before me in repentance. And I have indeed heard you, says the LORD. So I will not send the promised disaster until after you have died and been buried in peace. You will not see the disaster I am going to bring on this city.
What a fantastic lesson! The LORD saw Josiha's repentance and He decided to wait on carrying forth the disaster until after Josiah's death. GOD WILL NEVER BE WORSE THAN THE WORDS HE GIVES US, BUT HE CAN BE BETTER! In other words, our prayers can change God's plans for our good!! The other lesson is one for which I seek forgiveness---be thankful for His Word. Study it and follow it. The thought that they found this scroll from the LORD that was missing is remarkable! It trips me out! Many of us have so much and do so little with it! I ask the LORD to forgive me for not cherishing His Word! For not believing His Word! For not following His Word! I praise Him for His mercy! I praise God of hearing our prayers! God is good!!
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