Recently, my son had to have three wisdom teeth removed. The choppers needed to be extracted because of potential detrimental effects on the rest of the teeth. If the three offenders hadn’t been removed (God gave him just three wisdom teeth, not the normal four!), the repercussions could have included pain, infections, and an altered bite.

During the time of the kings in ancient Canaan, something destructive needed to be removed from God’s people. They had “abandoned [God] and offered sacrifices to pagan gods”—arousing His anger (2 Kings 22:17). A good king named Josiah was on the throne of Judah, but not all was well in the southern kingdom (2 Kings 22:1-2). This came to light after the known Scripture at that time (part or all of the Pentateuch) was rediscovered in the temple. When the court secretary read it to Josiah, he responded by tearing “his clothes in despair” (2 Kings 22:11).

Why? God’s Word revealed His condemnation of His people and their promised punishment. This deeply grieved the king, so he sent advisors to consult with the prophet Huldah. She told him that God would eventually “bring disaster on this city and its people” because of their sinfulness (2 Kings 22:16). She also said, however, that Josiah would be spared from witnessing the destruction due to his humility and repentance. It would occur after he had “died and been buried in peace” (2 Kings 22:20).

The account of Josiah and His people presents a cause and effect: When we turn from God and His Word, we fall into disobedience and embrace what’s not true. Consistent study of God’s Word, however, will help us stay true to Him and repent of what’s false in our lives. Practice the art of removal today.

NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Luke 24:44-53