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2 Kings-12

Restoring God’s Temple: A Devotional Study on 2 Kings 12​

Introduction​

The book of 2 Kings is a chronicle of kings in the kingdom of Judah, detailing high points and low points in their reigns. However, this chapter contains something rarely seen in the annals of kings: a restoration project.

King Joash, also known as Joash the son of Jehoahaz, had an unusual encounter that led to the restoration of the dwelling place of God's presence, the temple. As we dig deep into the story in 2 Kings 12, let's reflect on how we, too, can play a part in restoring God's dwelling place in our hearts.

Section 1: Joash the King (2 Kings 11:20-12:1)​

Devotional Thought: Joash's story begins with a hateful grandmother who kills her own son Jehoash while in bed with a masked assassin. Joash, then just a baby, escapes unscathed and is rescued by a loyal military officer. Joash's upbringing and escape from murder persuade him to repair the temple of the Lord. Let's reflect on how our childhood experiences shape us and propel us towards spiritual restoration today.

Reflection Questions:

  • How has your childhood impacted your spiritual journey today?
  • In what ways can you apply Joash's motivation for temple restoration in your own life?

Section 2: Joash's Discovery (2 Kings 12:2-4)​

Devotional Thought: Joash was brought to the temple by the high priest Jehoiada, who prompted Joash to remember a critical chapter in the temple's history: the money box of Moses. Joash carefully withdrew the money and used it to mend the damaged temple. Consider the lessons this story teaches us about the need to restore God's dwelling place.

Reflection Questions:

  • Have you noticed the way the church looks today, and are you worried like Joash was?
  • In what ways can you use your resources to mend and restore God’s temple in your heart and community today?

Section 3: Joash's Gratitude (2 Kings 12:5-6)​

Devotional Thought: The restored temple remained quietly suspended in the air until the arrival of King Hazael and King Aram, who invaded the city of Jerusalem. Joash's pious grandmother and oppressor-training left Joash unprepared to fight the invasion. King Joash understood that God's dwelling place had helped in previous battles and as such prayed earnestly to God for deliverance, which came after the battle. Realize that in prayer, God ordinarily answers and delivers an army against any foe.

Reflection Questions:

  • Joash prayed earnestly and saw deliverance. How do you pray when adversity comes?
  • Are you consistently expressing gratitude for God's provision in your life?

Section 4: Joash's Fulfillment (2 Kings 12:7-16)​

Devotional Thought: Joash's restoration efforts culminated with a fervor that exceeded that of his ancestors. He reduced the amount set aside as tax cut dramatically, even forgiving those who owed taxes. The resulting abundance was channeled to further the restoration of the temple and to ensure that God's dwelling place became a beautiful home for Him. Let's reflect on the joy of contributing our resources towards restoring God's dwelling place in our hearts.

Reflection Questions:

  • Joash's fervor for temple restoration could not be matched. How are you driving a fervor for temple restoration in your community?
  • Are you creating abundance for God's house in your giving and are you committed to frequently contributing to such an effort?

Conclusion:​

King Joash's story is a testimony of the provisions and protection offered through the restoration of God's dwelling place. Today, may we resonate with Joash's story; allowing these episodes in his story to inspire us to share in God's dwelling place renewal project through fervor, prayer, and resourcefulness.