Day 120: 2 Kings 21:26 - 24:20

So far, this story seems to be one of the saddest stories we've read. Here we have King Josiah, a man who just happened to stumble upon the Book of God's Revelation. When Josiah read the book, we learn that it completely broke his heart. Not only did it affect him on the inside, but it changed his life on the outside as well. Josiah read the Word of God and he decided to take it to heart and make some changes. He basically tore down every sinful thing he could find that was set up by his ancestors in an effort to please God. This big act was enough to bring mercy upon himself, but unfortunately, it was too late to bring redemption for the entire nation of Judah. As sad as this is, there is a very important truth we must glean from this story. God doesn't want us to wait till the last possible moment to turn back to Him. God had already sentenced the nation of Judah long before and it was way too late to recall it. Repentance isn't some last minute thing like stretching for a race or cramming before the big test. That's not to say that God won't forgive you at the last minute because He will, but that doesn't mean that you will automatically be exempt from paying in one way or another for the damage that's already been done. Tragically, it was hundreds of years too late for Josiah to turn in around for the nation of Judah, but it's not to late for us. So let's not wait till the last minute. Let's get in the Word today and allow it to break us apart like it did with Josiah.

- Lord, help me to be broken about Your Word. Help me to not put it off until tomorrow or wait until later to be obedient. I want to develop a passion for Your Word right now so that I never have to deal with the tragedy and pain of exile. You are my God and with Your strength, I will always burn for You. -