When there were three major television stations and one local paper, there was at least a perception of balance in reporting on various issues in the city and across the nation. It has been said that everyone has a right to their own opinion but not to their own facts. Facts help keep all honest.
Today there are a plethora of major and minor outlets that produce news 24/7. One can Google anything at any time. Podcasts come in whatever format and flavor that fits you. Facebook, ‘X’ and Truth Social are mediums for firing out opinions. All have a spin with their own facts that seem to support their take. It requires due diligence to discern through the noise for the most accurate message on which to base decisions.
Go and inquire of the Lord for me, the people, and all Judah about the instruction in this book that has been found. For great is the Lord’s wrath that is kindled against us because our ancestors have not obeyed the words of this book. – 2Kings 22:13. After king Amon, Josiah’s dad, and king Manasseh, his granddad, there was a plethora of sinful activity across the kingdom. The people had many gods, altars and high places where they worshiped. When Shaphan read the book of the Law to Josiah, he tore his robes. He knew God’s word was true but he did not want to initiate action only on his understanding. He desired to discern God’s will and direction for the nation. The king sent a delegation to the prophetess Huldah to validate what the Lord God was saying and gain clarity on what the Lord was going to do. She validated the word of God and warned that God’s wrath was coming, but not during Josiah’s reign. Josiah’s heart and humility were seen by God and he would not experience God’s wrath. Answers present choices. Josiah had to choose whether to just kick back and enjoy his reign under the protection of God or to accept the responsibility to turn his people from all their false gods to the One True God. Today, dads are charged to accept responsibility to help the next generation navigate through the noise and turn to God. The call is to discern like Josiah by listening to the word of God, hearing what He has to say and obeying.
Tips to Discern Like Josiah:
- Evaluate inputs – what you are reading, watching and listening to;
- Read the word of God daily, be grounded in a biblical worldview;
- Read Scripture and pray with your bride and kids;
- Seek wise counsel.
Prayer guide: Thank You Lord for Your word and Your presence in my life. I confess I allowed myself to get distracted by little ‘g’ gods of financial security, status and pride, and failed to be there when the kids needed me. Forgive me. Grant me clarity to navigate well through this world, grounded in a biblical worldview. Help me discern like Josiah, to listen for Your word, hear what You have to say and obey. That is the dad You call me to be and that is the dad the next generation needs. Amen.
A faithful father discerns like Josiah as he listens to God’s word.
