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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise It’s compelling to see how often the words “gladness” and “joy” occur in connection with worshipping you (2 Chr 30:21, 23, 26). You are a God of light and love and laughter. You delight in the praise of your people, and you long to share your joy with me! I exalt your name today and worship you! Praise the Lord! Today in Your Word Today you told me about the death of Ahaz and the early reign of his son, Hezekiah. Hezekiah was the complete opposite of Ahaz. The first thing he did as king was gather the priests and Levites and tell them to consecrate themselves and the temple. He said, “Now it is in my heart to make a covenant with the Lord, the God of Israel, in order that his fierce anger may turn away from us” (2 Chr 29:10). Surely this was the result of Hezekiah listening to Isaiah and Micah and realizing that you were judging Judah for its sin. Hezekiah led the princes of the city to your house to worship, and they rededicated the temple. What an inspiring example of spiritual leadership! Hezekiah knew that reform begins at the top, and he made sure his officials set a godly example for the people (cf. 2 Chr 29:20a, 30a, 36). You also told me about Hezekiah’s celebration of the Passover in Jerusalem. There had been nothing like it since the days of Solomon, and the people enjoyed worshipping you so much that they decided to celebrate another seven days beyond the normal feast time. Several things stand out to me: (1) The priests and Levites were put to shame by the enthusiasm of the people, and they consecrated themselves so they could properly execute their duties. This shows how zeal for you can motivate others to live a holy life. (2) Many of the people, especially those from the northern tribes, were not purified before eating the Passover, yet Hezekiah prayed for them and you forgave them. This shows that you place more weight on the attitude of the heart than on the strict observance of the letter of the law (2 Chr 30:18–30). (3) As soon as the celebration was over, the people went out and destroyed all their idols. This shows that when I draw close to you in repentance and worship, the result is a transformed life. Unlike Solomon who “clung” to his many wives (1 Kgs 11:2), Hezekiah “held fast” to you in love (2 Kgs 18:6). That’s what I want you to be able to say about me! Hezekiah motivates me to stand strong in the faith and run my race with endurance. Reflection Hezekiah’s actions serve as a template for revival: he remembered your compassion (2 Chr 30:9), he endured in spite of ridicule (2 Chr 30:10), he removed evil influences (2 Chr 30:14), he interceded for the people (2 Chr 30:15–20), he was open to spontaneity in worship (2 Chr 30:23), and he contributed generously to your work (2 Chr 31:3).[1] Are all these things present in my own life? Request Father, give me the spirit of Hezekiah, who trusted in you and did not depart from following your commands. Help me to love you with all my heart, mind, soul and strength! Thanksgiving Thank you for the joy that comes from serving you. May I always treasure the satisfaction and fulfillment that is found in walking in the light! In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “Revive Us Again” — William P. Mackay. Meditation Verse: 2 Chronicles 31:20–21. |
[1] (Chronological Life Application Study Bible NLT. Tyndale House Publishers.)