2 Chronicles 31:20, 21  In this way, King Hezekiah handled the distribution throughout all Judah, doing what was pleasing and good in the sight of the Lord his God. In all that he did in the service of the Temple of God and in his efforts to follow God’s laws and commands, Hezekiah sought his God wholeheartedly. As a result, he was very successful. (NLT)

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Following God’s instructions and doing what he says leads to success. This may feel like the kind of statement that makes you say DUH. However, for generations, an increasing majority of the people of Israel and Judah had not followed God’s instructions. They were not doing the right thing the right way in the right timing. They were not experiencing God’s blessings.

The northern kingdom of Israel had a succession of kings who seemed to try to outdo one another in descending deeper into evil. The southern kingdom of Judah’s kings alternated between good and bad, wise and foolish. King Hezekiah turned things back in the right direction. 

For three chapters (29-31), we see how King Hezekiah was most definitely not a chip off the old block. His dad was bad. A list of his major offenses can be found in 28:1-4. 

Hezekiah’s reforms led to renewal. His leadership reminds us of an old joke. A guy goes to his doctor and says, “Hey Doc, it hurts when I do this.” And the Doc says, “Don’t do that.” Hezekiah had a long Stop Doing list. This solved many of the problems. He also had a Start Doing list. This led to healthy, wholesome reforms. It led to national renewal. 

Three quick lessons arise from these three chapters. 

First, stop doing what is causing the problem. 

Second, start doing what brings healing.

Third, and most importantly, follow God’s clear instructions and learn his heart and mind so well that there is no doubt what to do when there is no chapter and verse instruction. Err on the side of grace. Protect and defend life. Do what is right, just, fair, and kind to everyone. 

Success is largely a matter of obedience, isn’t it? 

God’s directions and instructions build up, bless, and beautify. They are not burdensome. Build a better day and a better life by leaning into life-giving obedience to God.

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I will trust and obey God.

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Our Father, I want to know your clear direction and your life-giving instructions. Empower me for an obedient life that blesses everyone I meet and all I serve. Amen.