2 Chronicles 34:27

because your heart was tender and you humbled yourself before God when you heard His words against this place and against its people, and because you have humbled yourself before Me and you have torn your clothes and wept before Me, I have heard you,' declares the LORD.

Study Bible

because your heart was tender
A tender heart in biblical terms often signifies a receptiveness to God's word and a willingness to repent. This phrase highlights the importance of a responsive and humble spirit, as seen in other scriptures like Psalm 51:17, which speaks of a broken and contrite heart. The tender heart of King Josiah contrasts with the hardened hearts of many of his predecessors, emphasizing the value God places on humility and openness to His guidance.

and you humbled yourself before God
Humility before God is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, exemplified by figures such as Moses and David. In the context of Josiah, this humility is demonstrated through his actions of reform and repentance. Proverbs 22:4 links humility with the fear of the Lord, suggesting that Josiah's actions were rooted in a deep reverence for God. This humility is a key factor in God's favorable response to Josiah.

when you heard His words against this place and against its people
The words refer to the Book of the Law found during the temple repairs, likely Deuteronomy, which contained warnings of judgment for disobedience. Josiah's reaction upon hearing these words shows his awareness of the nation's sin and the impending judgment. This moment is pivotal, as it leads to significant religious reforms. The phrase underscores the power of God's word to convict and inspire change.

and because you have humbled yourself before Me
Repetition of Josiah's humility emphasizes its significance. Humbling oneself before God is a deliberate act of submission and acknowledgment of His sovereignty. This mirrors the call in James 4:10 to humble oneself before the Lord to be lifted up. Josiah's humility is not just an internal attitude but is demonstrated through his actions, aligning with the biblical principle that faith without works is dead (James 2:26).

and have torn your clothes and wept before Me
Tearing one's clothes and weeping were traditional expressions of grief and repentance in ancient Israel. This physical manifestation of sorrow indicates the depth of Josiah's repentance. Similar acts are seen in the lives of other biblical figures, such as Ezra (Ezra 9:3) and Job (Job 1:20). These actions reflect a genuine contrition and a desire for reconciliation with God.

I have heard you,’ declares the LORD
God's response to Josiah's humility and repentance is one of mercy and grace. This assurance of being heard by God is a recurring promise in scripture, as seen in 2 Chronicles 7:14, where God promises to hear and heal the land if His people humble themselves and pray. It highlights the relational aspect of God, who responds to sincere repentance and seeks to restore His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Josiah
The King of Judah who initiated religious reforms and sought to restore the worship of Yahweh. His heart was tender towards God, leading to significant spiritual renewal in the nation.

2. Jerusalem
The central place of worship and the location of the temple, which had fallen into disrepair and idolatry before Josiah's reforms.

3. Huldah the Prophetess
A prophetess in Jerusalem who confirmed the words of the Book of the Law found in the temple, leading to Josiah's repentance and reforms.

4. The Book of the Law
Discovered during temple repairs, this book (likely Deuteronomy) revealed the nation's disobedience and prompted Josiah's reforms.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who responds to Josiah's humility and repentance with mercy.

Teaching Points

The Power of a Tender Heart
Josiah's tender heart towards God led to personal and national transformation. A tender heart is open to God's word and responsive to His correction.

Humility Before God
True humility involves recognizing our shortcomings and turning to God in repentance. Josiah's humility was demonstrated through his actions—tearing his clothes and weeping.

The Importance of God's Word
The rediscovery of the Book of the Law was pivotal in bringing about reform. Regular engagement with Scripture is essential for spiritual renewal.

God's Response to Repentance
God hears and responds to those who humble themselves before Him. His mercy is extended to those who seek Him with a contrite heart.

Leadership and Influence
Josiah's personal commitment to God influenced the entire nation. Godly leadership can lead others towards righteousness and revival.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Josiah's response to the Book of the Law challenge us in our personal engagement with Scripture today?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a tender heart towards God in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of humility in 2 Chronicles 34:27 relate to the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to lead others towards spiritual renewal, as Josiah did?

5. How can we ensure that our repentance is genuine and not just an emotional response? What role does ongoing obedience play in this process?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 22
This parallel account provides additional details about Josiah's reforms and the discovery of the Book of the Law.

Deuteronomy 10:16
This verse calls for the circumcision of the heart, which aligns with Josiah's tender heart and humility before God.

Psalm 51:17
Highlights the importance of a broken and contrite heart, which God does not despise, similar to Josiah's response.

James 4:6
Emphasizes that God gives grace to the humble, reflecting the divine response to Josiah's humility.