149 Thrive Deeper: 2 Kings 18-23:30

Hezekiah When there was finally a Godly King in Judah – Hezekiah – they find themselves facing the greatest threat the nation had ever known – the attack of Assyria. Without adequate resources to defend Jerusalem, Hezekiah casts himself in faith upon the Lord and receives not only the promise of victory through God’s prophet Isaiah, but also experiences God’s victory through the Lord’s intervention.

Manasseh Worst King ever to rule in Judah. Longest reigning Judean King - 55 years. He adopted a pro-Assyrian policy. Killed the prophet Isaiah. Rebuilt high places. Introduced pagan astral worship – popular with the Assyrians. Destruction of Jerusalem and Judah now inevitable.

Josiah Good in the sight of the Lord Book of the Law found in the temple. Covenant Renewal. Notably he tore down the Golden Calves altars that Jeroboam had made. Passover was re-instated nationally – first time since the Judges had reigned. About 500 years.