2 Kings Chapter 22: Verses 2-7 (NLT Translation)
He did what was pleasing in the Lord’s sight and followed the example of his ancestor David. He did not turn away from doing what was right.In the eighteenth year of his reign, King Josiah sent Shaphan son of Azaliah and grandson of Meshullam, the court secretary, to the Temple of the Lord. He told him, “Go to Hilkiah the high priest and have him count the money the gatekeepers have collected from the people at the Lord’s Temple. Entrust this money to the men assigned to supervise the restoration of the Lord’s Temple. Then they can use it to pay workers to repair the Temple. They will need to hire carpenters, builders, and masons. Also have them buy the timber and the finished stone needed to repair the Temple. But don’t require the construction supervisors to keep account of the money they receive, for they are honest and trustworthy men.”
Josiah inherited the kingdom when he was just a wee lad. Both his father and grandfather had been wicked kings. But Josiah didn’t follow their example. However, he must have watched and learned from others who had the responsibility to care for and advise him. He also recognised when people, like the construction supervisors in the Temple, lived their lives by example.
We can exhort great influence over those around us just by going about our daily lives with integrity. We should always be aware that everything we do is also seen by God Himself. What a difference positive influences made to the young King Josiah, but ultimately to the people of Judah. What sort of impact could our lives make?
Dear Lord,
Thank You for everyone that has crossed my path and been such a positive influence and encouragement to me, especially those who have lived out their faith. Help me to follow their example. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.