Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Reformation: A Call for Renewal

Bible Reading:  2 Kings 23:1–6

Key verse:  3

"The king stood by the pillar and renewed the covenant in the presence of the LORD, to follow the LORD and keep his commands, statutes and decrees with all his heart and all his soul."

DEVOTION

Reformation begins when God's people return to His Word with humble and obedient hearts. In 2 Kings 23:1–6, King Josiah gathered the people of Judah and publicly read the Book of the Law. As they heard God's commandments, they realized how far they had departed from His ways. Instead of ignoring the truth, Josiah renewed the covenant before the Lord, committing himself and the nation to follow God wholeheartedly. His commitment was immediately followed by action as he removed the idols and everything that defiled the worship of the true God.
This passage reminds us that genuine reformation is more than outward change. It begins with an inward transformation that leads to visible obedience. Josiah did not settle for religious rituals; he sought spiritual renewal by restoring God's rightful place in the lives of His people.
The Church today is also called to such renewal. Lasting revival does not come through better plans or greater resources alone but through hearts that are willing to repent, obey, and submit to God's Word. Before we expect change in our churches or communities, we must first allow God to reform our own lives. Every idol of pride, self-reliance, materialism, or complacency must be surrendered to Christ.
God still honors those who seek Him with sincerity. When His people renew their covenant with Him and walk in faithful obedience, He restores, strengthens, and blesses His Church. May we respond to God's call today, allowing His Word to renew our hearts so that we may become faithful instruments of His grace and witnesses of His transforming power.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us back to Your Word. Forgive us for the times we have drifted from Your ways. Renew our hearts, remove every idol from our lives, and help us to follow You with wholehearted devotion. Let Your work of reformation begins in us so that Your Church may be strengthened and Your name glorified. In Jesus' name, Amen.
 

THOUGHT FOR THEE DAY

                     Ask ourself: What needs to change in our life for Christ to reign completely? 

 
Jacob Chacko, The Mar Thoma Church, Staten Island

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