What is my response when I read God’s Word and see the depths of my sin in the light of His mercy and grace?
Josiah tore his robes. He went on a massive quest to rid Israel of anything that caused the people to falter in their walk with the Lord. He proclaimed the Word aloud to all who would listen.
That’s a pretty solid example of what my response should be:
1. Grieve over my sin. When I am confronted with sin in my life, my first reaction should be to grieve over how I’ve failed to live in a way that honors God. If the realization of sin brings bitterness, defensiveness, anger, or resentment, then I need to ask God to help me see it as He does.
2. Ask the Lord what I need to do about the sin, and do it. Putting feet to my convictions helps me to firmly establish what is right and destroy the idols that have crept in. If I don’t tear down the sources of idolatry, I’m more prone to return to them in the future.
3. Declare the goodness of God. Despite my regular failure, God is so gracious and merciful to forgive. Others need to hear that truth. When God has forgiven and I have removed the idols in my life, I need to let others know that there is forgiveness and they, too, have the ability to turn from sin and live in peace and satisfaction with the Lord.
Josiah is known as one of the godliest kings of Judah. His example of confronting sin in his life and in the kingdom is one that still resonates.
What about you? How can I pray for you as you seek to live for Him today?
Josiah tore his robes. He went on a massive quest to rid Israel of anything that caused the people to falter in their walk with the Lord. He proclaimed the Word aloud to all who would listen.
That’s a pretty solid example of what my response should be:
1. Grieve over my sin. When I am confronted with sin in my life, my first reaction should be to grieve over how I’ve failed to live in a way that honors God. If the realization of sin brings bitterness, defensiveness, anger, or resentment, then I need to ask God to help me see it as He does.
2. Ask the Lord what I need to do about the sin, and do it. Putting feet to my convictions helps me to firmly establish what is right and destroy the idols that have crept in. If I don’t tear down the sources of idolatry, I’m more prone to return to them in the future.
3. Declare the goodness of God. Despite my regular failure, God is so gracious and merciful to forgive. Others need to hear that truth. When God has forgiven and I have removed the idols in my life, I need to let others know that there is forgiveness and they, too, have the ability to turn from sin and live in peace and satisfaction with the Lord.
Josiah is known as one of the godliest kings of Judah. His example of confronting sin in his life and in the kingdom is one that still resonates.
What about you? How can I pray for you as you seek to live for Him today?
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