Focal Passage: II Kings 22:8-20
I hear business and leadership gurus often say CEOs are really CPSs. Cheif Problem Solvers. People are confident when their leaders are optimistic. For every problem, there can be a good outcome. We can either (1) solve the problem, or (2) learn a lesson.
As we come to the conclusion of I-II Kings, it ends with a glimmer of hope and a lesson for us. Chapter 22 reveals during Josiah’s reign, a lot of work was making progress. In the midst of the work and the renovation of the temple, the Book of Law is found!
It’s logical to ask, “why had it disappeared?” Most likely, it was removed during Manasseh’s reign from its place beside the ark. Think of it! God’s Word lost in God’s holy temple! And no one seemed to care!
Unfortunately, in many churches and in many pulpits across the country, the Bible’s truth has been hidden. People like their ears tickled and many pastors don’t want to offend anyone. They might quit coming! They might quit giving!
One of the biggest challenges we face in our churches is a lack of biblical literacy.
In the second half of the Great Commission, Jesus commands his disciples, “…Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe (or obey) all that I have commanded you…”
Another logical question to ask is this: how can we teach others to observe God’s commands if we don’t know those commands ourselves? It stands to reason that obedience to ALL God has commanded us is part of our discipleship.
In reading the Word of God, we come to know the God of the Word! May we value God’s Word so highly that we not only KNOW it and “hide it in our heart” but get it into the hands of as many people as possible! A redeemed follower of Jesus should not be manipulated into reading and growing in understanding of God’s Word! It not only contains truth, but the very words of LIFE!
An unknown writer summarizes this succinctly, “This Book is the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding; its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, practice it to be holy.
It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword, and the Christian’s character. Christ is its grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end.
It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure.”
Josiah is a wonderful example in this story. But Jesus is the ultimate hero of the story. Josiah recovers the Word during his reign. But Jesus IS the Word! (John 1) He’s the King we need! B&R