Pastor Bob DuPar
July 2, 2008

Journal Entry



Scripture

2 Kings 20:1-22:2; Acts 21:17-36; Psalm 150:1-6; Proverbs 18:9-10.

Observation

Hezekiah’s prayer to God and God response is touching. God says, “I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will heal you.” (2 Kings 20:5) And, God added 15 years to his life.

It’s hard to understand how Manasseh could be so evil and out-of-step with God with a father like Hezekiah. I would guess that some of this was simply due to age – assuming the throne at age 12. And yet, Josiah became king at age 8; and, his father (Amon) was a horrible example. Listen to the description of Josiah:

“He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and walked in all the ways of his father David, not turning aside to the right or to the left.” (22:2)

I guess sometimes bad examples can impact us all the more to do the right thing and break the generational cycle of sin.

Finally, I like Proverbs 18:10 (the inspiration for the contemporary praise song, Blessed Be the Name of the Lord)

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”

Application

Our OT reading constantly underscores and highlights the importance of godly leadership. Kings were not only political leaders they were also fathers. And, since their sons became future kings, it was essential that they lead their families in godliness. Unfortunately, this did not happen very often. This is why the NT places a priority upon family leadership before public leadership.
Prayer

“Lord, raising kids is hard work. Leaving a godly legacy is no small task. None of this is even possible apart from Your grace and mercy. Would You please cover my family and the families at CBC with this grace?”