Today you should read: 2 Kings 22
A Willing Heart to Obey
What can God do with someone who has a willing heart to obey Him? The Scriptures record many examples. People like Abraham who followed God into a land he knew nothing about was willing to offer his only son as a sacrifice simply because God asked him to; Enoch who walked with God so closely he never had to die; Queen Easter who saved the Jewish people from destruction; or New Testaments saints like Mary or the Apostle Paul that went wherever God told him to.
Remember: obedience is doing what you’re told, when you’re told, with the right heart attitude. Today’s reading reveals yet another Bible character that practiced heart felt obedience to God. Josiah was only 8 when he took over as king, and he lead for 31 years. He followed God and did everything in his power to obey and lead his people to obey too.
As you read, a scroll was discovered, and as soon as Josiah realized what was in it – he repented of all the things that he and his people had done. Ways in which they had failed to obey God – then he changed – immediately! God give us a heart like that!
This reminds me of the story in Matthew 4 when Jesus called His first disciples.
Now as Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon who was called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. And He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately they left their nets and followed Him. Matthew 4:18-20
God expects you and I to obey Him just like that. Do you? Do you have a heart that says “Whatever you ask I will do”? If not, pray today and ask God to change you – to give you a heart like king Josiah.
- Take a moment and think about the condition of your heart – on scale of 1-10 how willing are you to obey God?
- What are some things you think God may have already told you or some things you think He wants you to do?
- Would you be vulnerable today? Would you share with the other JumpStart readers what you think God may be saying to you – or how He wants you to obey? This will encourage everyone – Thank you!
By: Tim Parsons — Lead Pastor
JumpstartCPC.com 
19) You were sorry and humbled yourself before the Lord when you heard what I said against this city and its people—that this land would be cursed and become desolate. You tore your clothing in despair and wept before me in repentance. And I have indeed heard you, says the Lord. 20) So I will not send the promised disaster until after you have died and been buried in peace. You will not see the disaster I am going to bring on this city.’”
Something from this passage really grabbed my attention this morning. Josiah was only 39 years old when he died. God rewarded Josiah for obeying and spared him from seeing “the disaster I am going to bring on this city.” The question I’m pondering this morning is this: Would I be willing to obey the Lord if I knew the reward was my life being shortened? Whether we have 39 or 99 years on this Earth, it’s all short term compared to eternity with our Heavenly Father. Lord help me to be obedient to You regardless the costs.
Interesting thought Mike. Thanks for being a faithful reader
It’s amazing what God’s Word does when it suddenly jumps off the page. When God quickens your heart to its meaning and you know that you must change. There’s a joy. His Word gives life because He is Life. His Holy Spirit gives us the power to overcome. Acknowledging our weakness and realizing God’s loving provision to equip us to please Him gives us the desire to repent and walk closer to Him
Great insights Kaitlyn.