I'm still amazed at how Josiah's life reflected such a commitment to God despite his father's influence! One thing that shows up here when you follow the math backward makes it even more amazing. Josiah died at age 39, and it was his third son who was made king, according to 1 Chronicles 3:15-16. That son was 23 years old, meaning that Josiah was 16 years old when he was born. He was deposed only 3 months later, and his older brother, Josiah's second son, became king. He was 25 years old, meaning that Josiah was 14 years old when he was born. 1st Chronicles mentions that Johanan was Josiah's first son, and since we have no other information about him, scholars assume that he died in childhood. With the two-year spacing between kids, it leads us to assume that Josiah would have been 12 years old when Johanan was born, and quite possibly 11 years old when he was conceived! Josiah's sons were almost of an age to be younger brothers to him!
Josiah did react most admirably when the Book of the Teachings was read to him. He cleansed Judah and even parts of Israel of idolatry and restored worship of Jehovah, but it happened too late. His father Manasseh's actions had doomed the kingdom.
Thinking that Assyria was still his biggest problem, and seeing that Assyria was attacking Babylon and also seeking help from Egypt, Josiah attacked Pharaoh Neco. "His meddling in Egypt's affairs was a personal decision and not a command from the Lord," my commentary said. He was wounded at Megiddo and died shortly thereafter, and his kingdom of Judah lost her independence and became subject to Egypt. This lasted from 609-606 B.C., and then Egypt retreated and Babylon took over."
As the end of Judah neared, Jehoiakim (Eliakim) ruled Judah for eleven years and he, too, did what the Lord said was wrong, despite the very godly example set by his father.
Father God, please help my sons to love You and to follow You. I don't want to see this same scenario played out in my family. Seek them first, Father, and help them to seek You. Draw their hearts to You, Father.
Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford
Gary Ford
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