The mystery of King Josiah is explained here. I wondered why Josiah, who did so much to restore the Israelites to God – was killed in battle.

God told Josiah through the prophetess Huldah that his wrath was coming against Israel – but not while Josiah was alive.

Yet when the King of Egypt was out warring against Josiah’s neighbours, Josiah decided to go out against him.

“The king of Egypt sent messengers to Josiah, saying, ‘What have I to do with you, king of Judah? I have not come against you this day, but against the house with which I have war; for God commanded me to make haste. Refrain from meddling with God, who is with me, lest He destroy you.”

This is fascinating: the Lord is with the King of Egypt!

Josiah decides not to believe him, and dons ordinary soldiers clothing in order to fight. He is killed.

Also, Psalm 69 is worth noting because it prays that God not allow anyone to be led astray because of the Psalmist’s actions and weaknesses. What a valuable prayer, particularly for times of weakness.

“O God You know my foolishness; and my sins are not hidden from You.

“Let not those who wait for You, O Lord God of hosts, be ashamed because of me; let not those who seek You be confounded because of me O God of Israel.”

Dear God, You know my foolishness. I have felt many foolish things in the past few days particularly. Please keep my faith strong and growing, and please help me keep my heart’s desires and hopes focussed on You. Please be with my dad. Please watch over J as he travels, and A who is finding it difficult with his friends. Pleases also be with AT, who is waiting to hear back about work. Thank you for the wonderful work he has been doing with children in recent months. Please bless my work – my work is to believe in the one You sent. Please show me how to express that belief and how to do your work with it. In Jesus’ name, Amen