MAY 18

        Today we complete our reading in the Book of II Chronicles. 
Our reading covers the death of Josiah, the reign of Jehoahaz, 
Jehoiakim, Jehoiachin, and Zedekiah. These kings reigned over Judah 
between 640 and 586 b.c. As mentioned in yesterday's comments, 
Josiah was one of Judah's best kings and brought revival to the 
land. However, in spite of all the Reformation of Josiah, we find 
Jerusalem in exile and captivity as the book ends.

        Chapter 36 reviews the Lord's grace and patience, and the 
reasons for the exile of God's people. Under the rule of Cyrus, king 
of Persia, a proclamation was made throughout all the kingdom to 
rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem. This was done to fulfill the Word 
of the Lord, which was given by Jeremiah many years earlier.

        Throughout I and II Chronicles we have seen the success and 
failure of God's people. God's people never knew failure when they 
followed the Lord, but never knew success when they followed the 
ways contrary to the Lord.

        As I review these two great books, II Chronicles 7:14 comes 
to my mind as one of the outstanding verses. "If my people, which 
are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek 
my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from 
heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." Every 
Christian should memorize this verse, believe it, and follow the 
instruction given in it. Only then will the promises become a 
reality. God wants to forgive our sins. He wants to bless our 
nation. But we must first present our bodies a living sacrifice, 
holy, acceptable unto God, that we might be used of Him. We must be 
clean vessels, meet for the Master's use.