Josiah’s story is told in 2 Kings 21:24-23:30; 2 Chronicles 33:25-35:27
Josiah: The Boy King Who Brought a Nation Back to God
Can a young person make a big difference in the world? The Bible says yes—and one of the best examples is King Josiah. He became king of Judah when he was just 8 years old, but he grew up to be one of the greatest kings in Israel’s history.
Josiah’s story shows us that no matter your age or background, God can use you in powerful ways if your heart is set on following Him.
A New King at Just Eight Years Old
Josiah’s father, King Amon, and his grandfather, King Manasseh, were not good leaders. They worshiped false gods and led the nation away from God’s truth. But when Amon died, Josiah became king—just a little boy sitting on the throne.
Instead of following in his father’s footsteps, Josiah chose a different path. He wanted to know God and do what was right.
A Young Heart That Wanted to Know God
By the time Josiah was 16 years old, he began to seek the Lord with all his heart. He wasn’t doing it just because others told him to—he really wanted to know God for himself.
By the age of 20, Josiah began cleaning up the land. He ordered the destruction of altars and idols that had been used for worshiping false gods. He broke down everything that was pulling the people away from the one true God.
Finding the Lost Book
While workers were repairing the Temple of the Lord, they made an incredible discovery. They found a scroll—the Book of the Law—that had been forgotten for many years. This was God’s Word, the instructions He had given to His people.
When Josiah heard the words read aloud, he was deeply moved. He realized that the people had not been living according to God’s ways. Josiah tore his clothes in sorrow, a sign of how serious he was about turning things around.
Leading a National Comeback
Josiah didn’t keep what he had learned to himself. He gathered all the people and read God’s Word to them. Then he led them in making a new promise—a covenant—to follow God and obey His commands.
He also led the people in celebrating Passover, something they hadn’t done properly in a long time. It was a joyful return to worship and remembering all that God had done for them.
Josiah’s Legacy
Josiah’s story is short but powerful. The Bible says he had a tender heart and humbled himself before God. Even though judgment on Judah eventually came because of the sins of earlier generations, Josiah’s life made a real difference.
Here are some simple but powerful lessons we can learn from him:
1. You’re never too young to follow God.
Josiah started seeking God as a teenager—and God used him to change a whole nation.
2. Doing what’s right isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.
Josiah had to clean up a lot of mess, but he didn’t give up.
3. When we learn God’s truth, we should act on it.
Josiah didn’t just listen to the Book of the Law—he made changes right away.
4. One person’s choices can inspire many.
Josiah’s faith and courage helped lead an entire people back to God.
Final Thoughts
Josiah’s life is a shining example of what it means to follow God with all your heart. He didn’t let his young age, his broken family background, or the mistakes of the past hold him back. He simply chose to do what was right—and God honored him for it.
What about you? What might God do in your life if you follow Him the way Josiah did?