Faithful to God’s Word

This was no ordinary celebration. It was a Passover unlike any other.

This Passover celebration took place during the reign of King Josiah. He had come to power when he was only eight years old and, in his 33 years as the King of Judah, he did many wonderful things. One of the turning points of his reign came during the 18^th year, when the book of the Law was discovered.

Almost immediately, both Josiah and Hilkiah (the high priest) recognized the importance of this book. As they read the Law, they realized the many ways they had failed to keep God’s commands. Humbled, Josiah led the people in repentance and turning back to God.

He seemed determined to right the sins of the past and obey God faithfully. That commitment led him to celebrate Passover exactly the way God had desired. They followed His directions so faithfully that this Passover was unlike any celebrated “since the days of Samuel the prophet.” This meant it was celebrated more faithfully and powerfully than any other Passover observance in history.

These actions also demonstrate the importance of Passover. It was so important to Jesus that the celebration of Passover was one of His final acts on earth (Mark 14).

As the people of Judah discovered, God has given us His Word, and He promises special blessings if we obey Him. But there also are negative consequences if we forget or neglect His Word.

Today, remember that you reap what you sow, and that God’s Word always is true. Seek to know His Word, and put His principles into practice. Learn to be faithful, and seek to please God and receive His full blessings.