Josiah's Joy

“Josiah turned himself… and like unto him was there no king before him, that turned to the LORD with all his heart, and with all his soul, and with all his might, according to all the law of Moses; neither after him arose there any like him” (2 Kings 23:16,25).  “By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil” (Proverbs 16:6). 

Josiah turned with all his heart,

With all his soul, and all his might

To love the Lord and not depart

From living daily in His sight. 

There was no king like him before,

And no king after him  arose

Who joyfully surrendered more

Than he did, as the record shows. 

Yet we may likewise enter in

To this experience of joy

And live for Christ who purged our sin

With all the strength we can employ. 

What joy awaits us as we turn

To give our life to Christ our Lord. 

What peace He gives as we discern

That He Himself is our Reward!

Lord, guide us with a godly fear

That teaches us to walk with You,

Delighted that You’re always near,

Observing all we say and do. 

Lord, as Josiah gave you pleasure,

Help us likewise do the same,

Surrendering in fuller measure

With joy to glorify Your name!