Joash’s story is told in 2 Kings 11:1-12:21; 2 Chronicles 22:11-24:27
Joash: A Young King’s Rise, Fall, and Forgotten Faith
Some people start off really well in life—but somewhere along the way, they lose their way. That’s the story of Joash, a king in the Old Testament. He began with great promise, but his life didn’t end the way it started. His story reminds us that faith needs to be personal. It’s not enough to just follow what others say—we need to know God for ourselves.
Saved as a Baby
Joash was born at a dangerous time. His grandmother, Queen Athaliah, was evil and wanted to wipe out the royal family so she could stay in power. She ordered all the king’s sons to be killed. But Joash was just a baby, and his aunt and the priest Jehoiada hid him in the temple for six years.
While Athaliah ruled the land, Joash was kept safe. No one knew he was alive—except a few trusted people. This quiet beginning shows that God was protecting him and had a plan for his life.
Becoming King at Just Seven Years Old
When Joash was seven, Jehoiada the priest revealed the young prince to the people. With the support of loyal guards and priests, they removed Queen Athaliah and crowned Joash as king.
Even though he was just a child, Joash had a strong start—because he listened to wise, godly advice. Jehoiada helped him make good choices and stay close to God. Joash even helped repair the temple, showing he cared about worshiping the Lord.
As long as Jehoiada was alive, Joash did what was right.
Drifting After His Mentor Died
But then everything changed.
After Jehoiada died, Joash no longer had that strong, godly voice guiding him. He started listening to new advisors who did not follow God. Before long, Joash turned away from God and went back to idol worship.
Jehoiada’s son, Zechariah, warned Joash and the people to turn back to the Lord. But instead of listening, Joash had him stoned to death—in the very temple Joash had once helped restore.
It was a shocking and sad moment that showed how far Joash’s heart had moved away from God.
A Sad Ending
Because Joash turned from God, trouble came. The army of Aram attacked Judah, and Joash was badly wounded in battle. While he lay injured, some of his own officials turned against him and killed him.
He was buried in Jerusalem, but not with the honor usually given to kings.
Lessons from Joash’s Life
Joash’s story teaches us some important lessons:
1. It’s not how you start, but how you finish.
Joash had a great beginning, but a tragic ending. A strong start is good—but we need to keep going with God.
2. Faith must be your own.
While Jehoiada was alive, Joash followed God. But once his mentor was gone, Joash lost his way. True faith comes from a personal relationship with God, not just following someone else.
3. The voices you listen to matter.
Good advice led Joash to do good things. Bad advice led him into sin. We need to be careful who we let guide our hearts and decisions.
Final Thoughts
Joash’s life began with a miracle and a mission. He had every chance to be a great king. But when he stopped listening to godly wisdom and tried to live without God, things fell apart.
His story reminds us to build a personal, lasting relationship with God—one that doesn’t fade when others are no longer around.
Are you standing strong in your own faith, or only walking in someone else’s footsteps?