II Chronicles 33-36

“Because your heart was tender and you humbled yourself before God when you heard His words against this place … I truly have heard you” (34:27).  Despite Hezekiah’s reforms, three generations later Judah had fallen into idolatry again.  Individual kings could temporarily restore the worship of God, but the people’s hearts were rebellious, and His Law was forgotten.  When King Josiah found the Law and read it, “he tore his clothes.”  He was shocked and horrified at how far his nation had fallen from truth and righteousness.

A wicked father and rebellious kingdom didn’t stop Josiah from recognizing the truth, repenting, and being accepted by God.