✨ Two Young Kings, Two Different Paths
Jehoiachin was eight years old when he became king, and he “did evil in the sight of the Lord” (2 Chronicles 36:9).
But in contrast, Josiah also became king at eight years old—and his story is written very differently:
“Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned in Jerusalem one and thirty years. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, and walked in the ways of David his father, and declined neither to the right hand, nor to the left.”
— 2 Chronicles 34:1-2 (KJV)
Two boys, two kings, two directions. One chose evil, the other righteousness.
🔥 Josiah’s Righteous Reign
Josiah didn’t just “do right” in a vague sense. Scripture tells us he:
- Sought the Lord early (2 Chronicles 34:3): At sixteen, “he began to seek after the God of David.”
- Purged the land (2 Chronicles 34:4): He tore down altars of Baal, cut down groves, and destroyed images of false gods.
- Restored true worship (2 Chronicles 34:8): He repaired the temple and re-established the reading of the Law.
- Humbled himself before God (2 Chronicles 34:27): When he heard the words of the Book of the Law, he wept, tore his clothes, and repented.
⚖️ What Made Josiah Different?
Unlike Jehoiachin, Josiah had a tender heart toward God. Scripture says:
“Because thine heart was tender, and thou didst humble thyself before God… I have even heard thee also, saith the LORD.”
— 2 Chronicles 34:27 (KJV)
The difference was the condition of the heart. Josiah was young, but he didn’t excuse himself because of age. Instead, he sought God early, loved truth, and refused to compromise.
🪴 Lessons for Us Today
- Age is not a barrier to righteousness. God can raise up leaders, prophets, and servants at any age.
- Seek God early. Just as Josiah began to seek the Lord in his youth, we must encourage children to pursue Him while their hearts are tender.
- Courage matters. It takes boldness to tear down idols—whether in ancient Judah or in our modern culture.
- A humble heart is key. God responds to those who bow before Him in sincerity.
🙏 Closing Reflection
Where Jehoiachin failed, Josiah flourished. Both were kings at eight years old. Both had choices. One “did evil in the sight of the Lord,” the other “did that which was right.”
The contrast teaches us: upbringing, influence, and the posture of the heart matter greatly. Children, no matter how young, can walk in righteousness when surrounded by godly influence and when they choose to seek the Lord.
💭 Reflection Question:
Are we raising Josiahs or Jehoiachins? What seeds are we sowing in the hearts of the children entrusted to us?
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