While preaching one Sunday morning, I invited three children to search our church sanctuary for several scrolls with Bible verses written on them. Whenever they found a scroll, I would have them read the words aloud, and then I would give them a prize. You should have seen those kids. They ran, moved chairs, and looked under plants and in purses (they had permission). Their quest for the Scriptures was extremely intense, but exciting. In a similar way, we are to search diligently to discover the importance of the Word of God in our lives.

In 2 Kings 22:1-20, King Josiah and the people of Judah also discovered the importance of the Word of God in their lives. When Josiah began taking action against idol worship in Judah, Hilkiah found the Book of the Law (probably referring to the book of Deuteronomy—see Deuteronomy 28:61; 29:21) in the temple. It must have been lost or concealed during the reign of King Manasseh.

Josiah did several things after uncovering God’s Word. He had it read to him as he listened intently (2 Kings 22:10). In so doing, he became aware of God’s commands. He responded by tearing his clothes in grief (2 Kings 22:11). Then he refined his knowledge by submitting to others who could help him understand it (2 Kings 22:12-20). Finally, he and the people renewed their commitment to its prominence in their lives by pledging themselves to the covenant written in the Book (2 Kings 23:1-4).

Today, God’s Word is not concealed or lost; it’s at our fingertips. Yet there’s still a need to rediscover its power and prominence in our lives. Let’s spend our time reading, responding, refining our understanding, and renewing our commitment to be changed by its message.