THE 15th OF MARCH
BEING HUMBLE AND REPENTANT BRING REWARDS
“Because your heart was tender, and you humbled yourself before the Lord when you heard what I spoke against this place and against its inhabitants, that they would become a desolation and a curse, and you tore your clothes and wept before Me, I also have heard you,” says the Lord. “Surely, therefore, I will gather you to your fathers, and you shall be gathered to your grave in peace; and your eyes shall not see all the calamity which I will bring on this place.” So they brought back word to the king. – 2 Kings 22:19-20
There are many examples in the Bible, where God changed His will toward those who sinned against Him, forgoing the punishment they deserved, in response to their sincere prayers and true repentance. What happened to King Josiah is one of these cases, which shows us that God not only has a perfect will, but He also has a permissive will too. Our fervent prayer can change the heart of God. “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” (James 5:16).
Because Josiah repented, God showed him His love and mercy, by delaying the punishment of the people until after his death.
SUGGESTED PRAYER
My Lord, please help me be obedient to You step by step. Please help me look at You, follow the example of Jesus and understand Your will for my life, as I study Your Word and help me to obey it. You are good, merciful, and loving, but You are also holy, just and You do not overlook unconfessed sins. Please help me to keep my heart pure and sincere before You at all times. I love and praise You dear Lord, with all my heart. Amen
Excerpts: thetruthstandsforever