As I began to study further, I was fascinated by Josiah’s response to what he heard when the Book of the Law was read to him, the Bible says, “Now when the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his clothes. Then the king commanded Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam the son of Shaphan, Achbor the son of Micaiah, Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah the servant of the king, saying, “Go, inquire of the Lord for my sake and for the sake of the people and for all Judah concerning the words of this book which has been found, for great is the wrath of the Lord which has been kindled against us, because our fathers have not listened to and obeyed the words of this book, so as to act in accordance with everything that is written concerning us.” Read 2 Kings 22:11 (NIV).
Look at this, Josiah sent the prophet to go speak to God on his and the people’s behalf. You and I do not need an intermediary to speak with God; He is our Father. The Scripture says, “we have boldness through Him, and free access as kings before the Father because of our complete confidence in Christ’s faithfulness.” Read Ephesians 3:12 (TPT). In other words, there is no restriction placed on us, quite frankly you have unfettered access to the Father who loves and cares for you affectionately, and he always wants to talk to you directly – primarily through the Book of the Law.
Watch, when we expose ourselves to and embrace the truth of the Bible, it will cause you and me to self introspect and evaluate one’s life using the Bible as our mirror, hence the Scripture says, “But those who set their gaze deeply into the perfecting law of liberty are fascinated by and respond to the truth they hear and are strengthened by it—they experience God’s blessing in all that they do!” Read James 1:25 (TPT).
Josiah set his gaze – focused on the Book of the Law, he also embraced God’s Word – truth, and Josiah succeeded as the king of Judah – induction into the Hall of Fame for kings in Israel. Beloved, when we set our face on God and embrace His Word, we will experience similar outcomes.
My Father, help me to be constantly hungry for Your Word and thirsty after Your righteousness. My Father, let my loyalty to You and Your Word run deeper and deeper. Thank You, I am eternally grateful.
We write. You read. Be encouraged.
Kolumns 