Then the king summoned all the elders of Judah and Jerusalem. And the king went up to the Temple of the LORD with all the people of Judah and Jerusalem, along with the priests and the Levites—all the people from the greatest to the least. There the king read to them the entire Book of the Covenant that had been found in the LORD’s Temple. The king took his place of authority beside the pillar and renewed the covenant in the LORD’s presence. He pledged to obey the LORD by keeping all his commands, laws, and decrees with all his heart and soul. He promised to obey all the terms of the covenant that were written in the scroll. And he required everyone in Jerusalem and the people of Benjamin to make a similar pledge. The people of Jerusalem did so, renewing their covenant with God, the God of their ancestors.

2 Chronicles 34:29-32

Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem thirty-one years. His mother was Jedidah, the daughter of Adaiah from Bozkath. 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.
2 Kings 22:1-2

• Josiah became king at 8 years old.
• He reigned for 31 years in Judah, a period of reform and restoration.
• "He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD."
• Josiah’s reign comes after the wicked reigns of his father, King Amon, and grandfather, King Manasseh, who had led Judah into idolatry and corruption.

• At age 16: Josiah begins seeking God.
• Initiated reforms by removing idols, altars, and Asherah poles from Judah.
• He tore down pagan shrines in the cities of Israel, sending a strong message of commitment to God.

• While repairing the temple, the Book of the Law (likely Deuteronomy) is discovered by the high priest, Hilkiah.
• Upon hearing its contents, Josiah is deeply distressed, realizing how far Israel has strayed from God’s commands.
• God promises judgment on Judah for their disobedience but assures Josiah that the judgment will not come during his lifetime because of his humility and repentance.

• Josiah gathers the people and publicly reads the Book of the Law.
•  He makes a covenant with the LORD to follow His commands and lead the people to do the same.
• The people tear down idols and fully dedicate themselves to God.

• Josiah organizes a grand celebration of the Passover, the first such observance since the time of the judges.
• Josiah’s story demonstrates the power of personal and national revival. 
• When Josiah heard the Word of God, he immediately responded by aligning his actions with it.
• Do we value the Word of God enough to let it shape our lives? 
• Do we hear it, study it, and live by it?
• Josiah’s leadership not only impacted his own life but also led to a national change.
• Josiah didn’t know exactly what God’s judgment would entail, but he trusted in God’s word and acted accordingly. 
• When we open God’s Word, it can reveal areas in our lives that need transformation. 
• The Scriptures hold the power to bring revival and restoration.

• Josiah left a legacy of faithfulness and reform. 
• His example shows that we can have an impact not only on our own lives but on those around us through obedience to God.
• God responds to humble repentance and a sincere desire to follow Him. 
• Even in the face of judgment, God shows mercy to those who seek Him with a repentant heart.

• Even if it wasn’t going to end the way Josiah wanted it to…he was still faithful. 
• A lesson for us all. 

In a world full of crazy headlines and a constant news cycle…remember that God is always faithful. Our faithfulness to Him is not conditional on His fulfillment of our wish list here on earth. He is good. He is faithful. Forever. Believe it, and live like you do!