AUGUST 3 – Reading 215

by Tim Satryan | August 3

“CHANGING THE PAST AND SHAPING THE FUTURE”
(2 Kings 22:1-23; 2 Chronicles 34:1-33)

“And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, and walked in the ways of David his father; and he did not turn aside to the right hand or to the left.” – 2 Chronicles 34:2

At times, it is all too easy to become overwhelmed with your life’s situation and circumstances. Things that have happened, places you have been, experiences encountered… and you feel like you’re stuck in a ditch with no way out. Of course, the old saying is true, that if you are stuck in a ditch, the first thing to do is stop digging!

As we read in today’s Scripture assignment, Josiah was just 8 years old when he became king. But, at that young age, he “began to seek the God of David his father.” Just a while later, he began to rid the kingdom of all the false gods and idols. He sanctioned and provided for the rebuilding of the house of the Lord. And, as the Book of the Law was found and read, Josiah “tore his clothes” grieving over Israel’s departure from God, and determined to hear the voice of the Lord and do what the Book said to do.

Could Josiah change the horrible past that he inherited? Of course not. But, that didn’t stop him from doing what was necessary to spiritually shape the future of the nation!

Likewise, it’s simply not possible for you to change your history, or the circumstances and situation you find yourself in today. But, you can make purposeful decisions to move forward, led by the Lord, following the clear direction found in His Word!

Simple Truth: Don’t allow difficult life situations determine your future direction! Your position tomorrow will be determined by your decisions today!

Reflection & Application:

• As a young boy, Josiah did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. As a teenager, he sought the Lord’s will for his life, and then made the decision to get rid of all ungodly things! It’s never too early – or too late – to make a decision to live right, get rid of evil, and serve the Lord!
• Josiah made the purposeful decision to allocate the finances found for use in rebuilding the house of God. Each of us must likewise honor God with all our resources!
• We read that Josiah’s heart was tender, that he walked in humility, grieving and weeping about the condition around him. Hence, God heard Josiah, and spared him from the disaster awaiting others. If you will follow Josiah’s example, God will hear you! The world around you may still experience disaster, but God will protect you and give you peace!

Closing Prayer:
Lord, the day in which we life is filled with violence, war, and indifference to You, Your ways and Your Word. We have been commanded to be “in this world, but not of this world” (John 17:14-16). I thank You for Your promise to never leave me or forsake me. Help me, I pray, for follow Your Spirit’s leading today and every day. I ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.