August 5, 2011 (2 Kings 23; 2 Chronicles 35; John 7)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “But Neco sent messengers to him, saying, “What have we to do with each other, O King of Judah? I am not coming against you today but against the house with which I am at war, and God has ordered me to hurry. Stop for your own sake from interfering with God who is with me, so that He will not destroy you.” 2 Chronicles 35:21 NASB
Observation: Josiah had done so many great things. He cleared out all the idols, tore down all the false gods, and turned the people back toward God. In this chapter we don’t know why Neco was sent to make war, but we do know God was with him. Josiah’s life was cut short because he didn’t listen to the words of the Lord spoken by Neco. When God is at work, we need to stay out of His way.
Application: God is at work in people’s lives today just the same as then. This story brings to mind a time when I got in God’s way. He was trying to reach a family member but I stepped in and tried to “help” God out. It ended up costing me thousands of dollars and years of heartache and distress. God sent a “Neco” to warn me too, my “Neco” was my wife. She warned me to wait but I didn’t listen. Because I didn’t hear the word of the Lord, He spoke through her, I was injured. Thank God, He had mercy on me and spared my life.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I love you so much! You are wonderful and worthy of all my praise! Your word teaches and guides me into Your truth. You are not limited or bound by anything or person. Teach me Your ways. Control me by Your Spirit. Lead me in the paths of righteousness for Your name’s sake, deliver me from my enemies, in Jesus name, Amen.