MAY 18

Today we complete our reading in the Book of II Chronicles.
Our reading covers the death of Josiah, the reign of Jehoahaz,
Jehoiakim, Jehoiachin, and Zedekiah. These kings reigned over Judah
between 640 and 586 b.c. As mentioned in yesterday’s comments,
Josiah was one of Judah’s best kings and brought revival to the
land. However, in spite of all the Reformation of Josiah, we find
Jerusalem in exile and captivity as the book ends.

Chapter 36 reviews the Lord’s grace and patience, and the
reasons for the exile of God’s people. Under the rule of Cyrus, king
of Persia, a proclamation was made throughout all the kingdom to
rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem. This was done to fulfill the Word
of the Lord, which was given by Jeremiah many years earlier.

Throughout I and II Chronicles we have seen the success and
failure of God’s people. God’s people never knew failure when they
followed the Lord, but never knew success when they followed the
ways contrary to the Lord.

As I review these two great books, II Chronicles 7:14 comes
to my mind as one of the outstanding verses. “If my people, which
are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek
my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from
heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” Every
Christian should memorize this verse, believe it, and follow the
instruction given in it. Only then will the promises become a
reality. God wants to forgive our sins. He wants to bless our
nation. But we must first present our bodies a living sacrifice,
holy, acceptable unto God, that we might be used of Him. We must be
clean vessels, meet for the Master’s use.