HEY @ DISCLOSURE EYES REPORTS
This is a short mid-level learning activity about the NEO of the Old Testament Bible.
King Josiah was a young king of Judah (around 640–609 BC) who loved God. When workers found an old copy of God’s laws (the Torah) in the temple, Josiah realized his people had been ignoring God and worshipping fake gods and idols for years. He was horrified! So, he went on a mission to clean up the nation:
- He destroyed idols: He tore down statues of false gods like Baal and Asherah, smashed altars where people sacrificed to idols, and even got rid of places where people did evil things (like child sacrifice).
- He restored Passover: People had forgotten to celebrate Passover, the holiday remembering how God freed Israel from slavery in Egypt. Josiah threw a giant Passover party to refocus everyone on God’s faithfulness (2 Kings 23:21–23).
But even though Josiah did everything right, the Bible says Judah was still punished later because of the sins of earlier generations (2 Kings 23:26–27). His reforms were like a “reset button,” but the people’s hearts didn’t fully change.
Modern “Idols” (Things That Replace God)
Today, people don’t usually worship statues, but we still have “idols”—things we treat as more important than God:
- Social media likes/followers: Obsession with being “seen” or “liked” online.
- Money or stuff: Thinking happiness comes from what we own.
- Popularity or approval: Caring more about fitting in than doing what’s right.
- Self-centeredness: Living like we’re the boss, not God.
How to Be Like Josiah Today
- “Smash” Bad Influences: Avoid things that pull you away from God (bad movies, gossip, greed). Just like Josiah tore down idols, you can hit “unfollow” on toxic social media or walk away from peer pressure.
- Celebrate God’s Goodness: Josiah revived Passover. We can celebrate God by praying, reading the Bible, or serving others—maybe even throwing a “faith party” with friends!
- Stand Up for Truth: Josiah didn’t stay silent. When friends mock faith or promote harmful ideas, kindly speak up. Example: “I don’t joke about that—it’s against what God says.”
The Big Lesson
Josiah’s story teaches us that doing the right thing matters, even if others don’t change. God cares about our faithfulness, not just results. Today, we can’t force society to follow God, but we can clean up our hearts and actions—and trust God with the rest.
Bible Verse to Remember
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray… I will forgive their sin and heal their land.”
—2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
Talk About It
- What’s one “idol” (distraction) you need to “smash” this week?
- How can you celebrate God’s goodness in more creative ways?
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