In God’s history of redemption, godly leaders carried out the function of covenant mediator; cf. Moses (Ex 24:3-8; Dt 1:3-4), Joshua (Jos 24), Samuel (1Sa 11:14-12:25) and Jehoiada (2Ki 11:17). So did King Josiah (vv. 1-3). “Then all the people pledged themselves to the covenant” (v. 3b).

The focus of Josiah’s spiritual reformation was to set the nation free from idolatrous practices. His reform was thorough and in detail (vv. 4-16). He burned all the articles made for Baal and Asherah and all the starry hosts and took the ashes to Bethel (v.4b) in order to desecrate the very place where the golden calf worship had originally polluted the land (1Ki 12:28-30).

Godless political leaders do things which they think will make them popular among the people even if they are in conflict with God’s truth. They appeal to their idolatrous hearts. They are in sharp contrast with godly leaders such as Josiah, who led the people to pledge themselves to the covenant with God.
Application: Father, thank for the wonderful example of the godly king Josiah. Please raise such godly leaders in this nation that we may be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. Amen.
One Word: Recommit yourself to the covenant with God