He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. (2 Kings 22:2)
Expanded Passage: 2 Kings 22:2-4
A man in my hometown passed away, and in remembering him, one lifelong friend remarked, “Bill Moore could always be depended upon to do the right thing.” A high compliment from a man who knew him well across decades.
Today’s key verse goes on to say, “ . . . and followed completely the ways of his father David, not turning aside to the right or to the left.” Josiah was consistent, faithful, predictable, and principled. He did not leave his subjects wondering whether he would do the right thing. They did not question if he would withstand any suggestion to do the wrong thing, whether the pressure was nuanced or direct.
Like all of us, Josiah surely faced many opportunities to compromise principle for temporary benefit. Many of us within the church who claim the name of Christ find ourselves in this cultural moment facing pressure, both subtle and direct, to compromise principle for temporary benefit.
Historians indicate there were as many as fifteen generations from David to Josiah. Josiah lived his life and ruled his country on a foundation of multigenerational time-tested beliefs and practices; he “did what was right in the eyes of the Lord” and did not turn away from doing what was right. Like Josiah, we can strive to continue to do what is right.
Never underestimate the heritage you received or the one you pass along.
HC Wilson is General Superintendent Emeritus of The Wesleyan Church. He and his wife, Debby, reside in New Brunswick, Canada.
© 2024 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
