In Second Kings, chapter twenty-two, verse three, Josiah’s dedication at twenty-six years of age reveals that a young person can have a zeal for the Lord and His cause equal to or greater than many older adults. When Josiah sent Shaphan, the secretary of state, into the temple in the eighteenth year of his reign, with instructions to Hilkiah, the high priest, to pay to the builders the money which had been composed of the people for repairing the temple by the Levites who kept the door. The people giving a little at a time were not feeling the burden, and offering by voluntary contribution was not complained of. Still, the temple that received repair under Josiah naturally resembles the same proceeding under Joash as in Second Kings twelve, verse ten. However, for more than two hundred years, the fabric might need repair, apart from the defacements undergone by the heathenish princes, as in Second Chronicles thirty-four, verse two.
The difference in the event of Josiah’s early succession from Manasseh ascribes to the distinguishing grace of God. Yet, probably, the persons who trained him were instruments in producing this difference. His character was excellent. Had the people joined the reformation as heartily as he persevered, the blessed effects would have followed. But they were wicked and had become fools in idolatry.
The difference between Josiah and Manasseh is the environment. Today, it is not easy for a child to grow properly in society because of all the influences available now more than ever. Technology has a lot to do with it. Social media has become the norm instead of learning the natural ways of life. Cellphone is the way of living, and the physical communication is secondary. Parents must pray that their children come to know God in spirit and truth by His Word.