2 Kings chapter 12 verses 1-2 (NIV)
In the seventh year of Jehu, Joash became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem forty years. His mother’s name was Zibiah; she was from Beersheba. Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the years Jehoiada the priest instructed him.
The kings of Judah, and the kings of Israel had a bit of a mixed reputation when it came to following God. We are told in the book of Kings, usually at the record of the start of their reign, as to whether they followed the example of their ancestor David, and thus followed God, or whether they followed other ancestors and did evil in the eyes of the Lord.
We are told that Joash did right in the eyes of the Lord because he followed the instruction and direction of a trusted and reliable priest.
That made me think about the kind of example we set for those who come after us. Do we set an example they would be wise to follow or not. By the way we conduct ourselves are we instructing them correctly in the ways of God, or are our lives giving them the wrong idea of what it really means to be a Christian. I know the example my Grandpa Murphy set for me. One who was a genuine follower of Jesus. I hope that I am following his way.
Dear Lord,
Help me never to forget that I am setting an example as a follower of Jesus. May people always see Jesus in me, rather than my opinions and ways. I ask in His Name. Amen.