The Book

It’s never stated exactly when or how the Book of the Law went missing or was forgotten. The Law is referenced many times through the narratives of the kings which seems to imply that the kings should have known or had access to the law. Therefore, it was probably not missing long. Most likely during the tyrannical reign of Manasseh.

The effect that discovering God’s word has on Josiah is significant. Without the word of God, Israel and Judah had blurred the lines between faith in the Lord and the religions of the nations around them. God’s Word is His revelation of Himself to the world that stands true in every generation. In the thousands of years since they were first written down, time and time again God has spoken to people through these same words to touch and transform lives.

The Law taught the people how to live, but more importantly, it showed them how to know God. This is why we read the Bible today, not just to know how to live, but to know God Himself.

Thought Point

Read John 5:39-40. Do you read the Bible to know more about the Bible or to come to Jesus? How might each approach change how you read the Bible?

Prayer Point

Ask God to fill you with a passion for reading his Word. Ask him to open your eyes to Scripture so when you read it you are coming into His presence and hearing His words for you.