Are We Rejoicing?

O. T. #1490  "Are We Rejoicing?"
July 25, 2019
Proverbs 25

LET IT GLOW

Chapters 25-29 are included in the Hezekiah's Collection. They were written by Solomon, but men of King Hezekiah copied them. Copied indicates that the scribes were dealing not only with written proverbs, but also with proverbs that were a part of Israel's oral tradition. Hezekiah, in his anxiety to preserve these sacred words from the past, had them brought together in one sacred collection. (Falwell)

This happened 250 years later. Hezekiah was a righteous king and desired to return to godly wisdom (2 Kings 18:2-8) What were his first acts as king, found in chapter 29 of 2 Chronicles?

• He opened the doors of the House of the Lord and repaired them. (verse 3)
• He brought the priests and Levites together. (verse 4)
• He told them to get rid of the idolatry, filthiness within the Temple and sanctify it, as well as themselves. (verse 5) This was accomplished within 16 days.
• The sin offering was reinstated, Temple musicians and singers returned, and the people freely offered thank and burnt offerings, as the priests and Levites continued their function. (verses 26-35)

How did the people respond to all of this? Verse 36 tells us Hezekiah rejoiced, and all the people, that God had prepared the people: for the thing was done suddenly.

Are we doing what is right? Are we rejoicing in God's House of Worship? Are we seeking forgiveness of our sins?

LET IT GROW

Jesus exemplified wisdom in His ability to rejoice, weep, and speak hard truth depending on what the situation called for. He was aware of the hearts of others and what would be wise for each circumstance. (Matthew 21:12-14; Luke 11:33-35; John 8:1-11)

LET IT GO

Rejoice in the Lord.