2 Kings 22:19

“Because thine heart was tender, and thou hast humbled thyself before the LORD, when thou heardest what I spake against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, that they should become a desolation and a curse, and hast rent thy clothes, and wept before me; I also have heard thee, saith the LORD.”

Historical Context:2 Kings 22:19 is part of the account of King Josiah’s reign in Judah. Josiah became king at the age of eight and reigned for thirty-one years. During his reign, the book of the Law (likely the book of Deuteronomy) was discovered in the temple, which led to a revival and reformation in Judah.

• Heart Tenderness and Humility:

The verse begins by highlighting two important qualities of King Josiah’s heart: tenderness and humility. Josiah’s heart was tender, meaning it was sensitive and responsive to the things of God. He had a genuine desire to follow God and His commands. Additionally, Josiah humbled himself before the Lord, acknowledging his dependence on God and recognizing the significance of His words.

Responding to God’s Word:The verse states that Josiah heard what God spoke against the place (likely referring to Jerusalem) and its inhabitants. This implies that Josiah became aware of the sins and disobedience of the people, which would result the city’s desolation and becoming a curse. Josiah’s response to this revelation was significant. He tore his clothes, a customary act of mourning and repentance, and wept before God.

God’s Response to Josiah:In response to Josiah’s tender heart and humble attitude, God heard him. The Lord acknowledges that He has heard Josiah’s plea and prayers. This reveals God’s willingness to respond to a heart that is genuinely seeking Him. The verse affirms that God acknowledges the repentance and humility displayed by Josiah and offers a response of grace and mercy.

Application for Believers:

• Tender Heart: We can learn from Josiah’s example and cultivate a tender heart towards God. It involves being sensitive to His voice, receptive to His correction, and responsive to His commands. A tender heart allows us to grow in our relationship with God and align our lives with His will.
• Humility: Humility is an essential quality for believers. Recognizing our need for God and humbling ourselves before Him enables us to receive His grace and mercy. It also positions us to be used by God for His purposes.
• Repentance and Prayer: Josiah’s response included tearing his clothes and weeping before God. This signifies genuine repentance and the expression of deep sorrow for sin. As believers, we are called to repentance and a posture of humility in our prayers. We should approach God with contrite hearts, seeking forgiveness and restoration.
• God’s Response: The verse emphasizes that God hears the prayers of those with tender hearts and humility. It reminds us that God is compassionate and merciful. He responds to our repentance with forgiveness, restoration, and guidance.

In conclusion, 2 Kings 22:19 presents the account of King Josiah’s humble and tender-hearted response to God’s words of judgment. It highlights the importance of having a sensitive heart towards God, responding with humility, and seeking Him through repentance and prayer. It also assures us that God hears and responds to those who genuinely seek Him.