VERSE:
When the king [of Judah] heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his robes…

…”Tell the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the Lord, ‘This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says concerning the words you heard: Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before the Lord when you heard what I have spoken against this place and its people, that they would be accursed and laid waste, and because you tore your robes and wept in my presence, I have heard you, declares the Lord…’”
— 2 Kings 22:11-19

THOUGHT:
So many people own a bible, yet few are affected by its truths. One glance at the word of God was enough for the king of Judah to be driven to despair because of the spiritual condition of his people. The bible suggests that his reaction was the appropriate response to the reading of God’s word. What’s the difference between those who are affected by God’s word and those who aren’t? According to this passage the difference is the condition of their hearts and the level of their humility.

APPLICATION:
Open your heart to be responsive to God’s word. Don’t just take in the facts as information, but ask God how you should respond in light of the facts. Humble yourself before the Lord, understanding His hatred and judgment of sin.

PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, soften my heart so that it would be responsive to your word. Cloak me with humility so that your word would affect my life for your purposes. In Jesus’ Name I pray, AMEN!