Day 103
Observation
After the captivity and deportation of Israel, the author's focus shifts to the surviving kingdom of Judahwhose days are also numbered. During this crucial hour in Judah's history, God raises up a righteous reformer named Hezekiah, who institutes sweeping changes in the political, military, and religious course of his nation. Hezekiah's heart for God is no where more visible than in his prayer life, which is both persistent and potent. But the spiritual dynamic that marks his life is strangely absent in the life of his son Manasseh, whose wicked leadership brings the nation to the brink of collapse.
Application
Try your hand at a word association game. Jot down the first five words that come to mind when you read the word "youth."
Did you think of things like "enthusiasm," "idealism," or "immaturity"? If you have teenagers at home, your list probably looked more like "car keys,", "iPhone," and "money"!
In a period of Israel's history when despair hung over the nation, a young inexperienced king took an uncompromising stand for God and turned the tide of spiritual decline. Hezekiah's youthfulness was tempered by his commitment to obey God's commands at any cost. His age became an asset, not a liability. Ours can too, if we become an example to the believers. How? Look up—click here:1 Timothy 4:12, it lists at least five ways. Did you find them? Let's pick at least one and make it our exercise in exemplary living today!
Did you think of things like "enthusiasm," "idealism," or "immaturity"? If you have teenagers at home, your list probably looked more like "car keys,", "iPhone," and "money"!
In a period of Israel's history when despair hung over the nation, a young inexperienced king took an uncompromising stand for God and turned the tide of spiritual decline. Hezekiah's youthfulness was tempered by his commitment to obey God's commands at any cost. His age became an asset, not a liability. Ours can too, if we become an example to the believers. How? Look up—click here:1 Timothy 4:12, it lists at least five ways. Did you find them? Let's pick at least one and make it our exercise in exemplary living today!
Prayer
Lord, we come to you today asking for help setting an example for unbelievers and believers alike by the way we live our life. Let our light shine so bright that we lead many into your kingdom—so that all may come to the saving grace of Our Lord Jesus Christ. In His blessed name! Amen!
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It's all about God's Kingdom! |
© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020