2 Kings 21:19-22:11

“Now it happened, when the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, that he tore his clothes.” (2 Kings 22:11, NKJV)

Josiah is one of my favorite Old Testament men of faith. Even though his father was a bad example, he imitated his ancestor David. From an early age, he sought the LORD. I believe Josiah is an important figure today because he lived during the last days of a nation. The sins of his grandfather Manasseh set in motion a course of judgment that could not be reversed. Nevertheless, Josiah succeeded in bring revival in Judah and tearing down the high places of pagan worship. He stayed God’s hand—at least for his lifetime. Josiah proves that in any generation, the LORD is searching for loyal hearts through whom He can change the world. He brought revival to a people desperately in need of God—a nation not unlike our own.

Josiah took four steps to bring revival.

1. He sought RIGHTEOUSNESS. Josiah walked in all the ways of his forefather David who was a man after God’s own heart. He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD. Personal revival begins when we seek first God’s kingdom and righteousness (Matthew 6:33).

2. He RESTORED the temple. This action revealed Josiah’s love of worship. We no longer have a physical temple, for we are the temple of the Holy Spirit. But perhaps our temple has fallen into disrepair. Is anything hindering our pure worship of the LORD? Then let’s fix it!

3. He REDISCOVERED the Word. Josiah heard the words of God and consequently made spiritual reforms. Revival has been described as the Spirit of God coming upon the people of God through the Word of God. If we would experience revival, both personally and corporately, then we must have a renewed appreciation for God’s Word and do what it says.

4. He was REPENTANT. When Josiah heard the Word of God, he tore his clothes because he knew that they had sinned greatly. At the core of every revival is personal conviction over sin and repentance. When the Holy Spirit moves on our hearts, He cleans house and gives us a desire to be holy as the LORD is holy.

Like Josiah, I believe we are living in the last days—not only of our nation but also of the world. But just as God spared Josiah from the wrath to come, so He will spare us if we do these four things.