Josiah – The Book of Law Found (2 Chronicles 34:14-21 Devotional)

The Book of the Law Found

While they were bringing out the money that had been brought into the house of the Lord, Hilkiah the priest found the Book of the Law of the Lord given through Moses. Then Hilkiah answered and said to Shaphan the secretary, “I have found the Book of the Law in the house of the Lord.” And Hilkiah gave the book to Shaphan. Shaphan brought the book to the king, and further reported to the king, “All that was committed to your servants they are doing. They have emptied out the money that was found in the house of the Lord and have given it into the hand of the overseers and the workmen.” Then Shaphan the secretary told the king, “Hilkiah the priest has given me a book.” And Shaphan read from it before the king.

And when the king heard the words of the Law, he tore his clothes. And the king commanded Hilkiah, Ahikam the son of Shaphan, Abdon the son of Micah, Shaphan the secretary, and Asaiah the king’s servant, saying, “Go, inquire of the Lord for me and for those who are left in Israel and in Judah, concerning the words of the book that has been found. For great is the wrath of the Lord that is poured out on us, because our fathers have not kept the word of the Lord, to do according to all that is written in this book.”

2 Chronicles 34:14-21

Points to Ponder

“The very practice of reading [the Bible] will have a purifying effect upon your mind and heart. Let nothing take the place of this daily exercise.”

Billy Graham

I could imagine they encountered a lot of valuable artifacts in the process of repairing the temple. Yet, the true hidden treasure was not made with gold or silver but inspired by God. The book of Law was found. The word “found” strikes me hard and begs these questions –

How long has it been sitting there? and

How long have the people forgotten about God’s law?

I hope these questions also ring loud in our hearts.

Today’s passage shows us four steps/stages in dealing with the Word of God.

1. Finding –

Seek, and you will find. Let’s come before the Lord with a thirst for His sweet Word.

2. Reading –

When was the last time you READ the Bible out loud? Why don’t we do it now? Stop reading what I write. Go back to the scripture. Read it word by word slowly.

3. Hearing –

Don’t be those who listen but do not hear. Understanding comes from reading and hearing. It often takes quite a number of repetitions to get there. By the way, thanks to Yan for reading and recording for us every day. What a blessing! Your active listening is required.

4. Responding –

Josiah tore his garment. Seems so dramatic but also so honest! He realized they were so far from God and did not follow His law. The Bible is a good mirror for our life, revealing our darkness and compels us to repent and draw near to Him.

Dear Lord, speak to us through our reading of your Word. Revive our hearts to respond to your Word. Amen

---