2 CHRONICLES 34

JOSIAH MOURNS + RESPONDS TO GOD’S LAW

Josiah rules as a righteous king over Judah, removing high places and altars of Baal. Josiah provides money to the Levite priests to help rebuild and restore the temple. During this time, Hilkiah, the priest, found the Book of the Law that God had given to Moses.

Upon hearing the contents of the book, Josiah mourns and tears his clothes in repentance. Josiah knows that God’s wrath would be great, according to what was written in his law and the actions of Judah. God shows compassion on Josiah for his repentance and humility. God promises Josiah that His wrath will not come until after his death, similar to the promise He earlier made to Hezekiah. Instead of pride, Josiah responds with obedience and follows God’s law for the remainder of his life.