Have you ever read something in Scripture and felt as if your entire world was being held up to a mirror? That’s what happened to King Josiah—and what followed was one of the most powerful national turnarounds in the Bible.

This week, we’re reading about the spiritual renewal that took place at the time of King Josiah in 2 Kings 22:11–20. Behind Josiah’s faithful actions stood of woman ready to prophetically speak God’s word into his life. Huldah, known as a prophetess, was sought by the king’s advisors at a crucial time.

Setting the Scene

To truly grasp the significance of Josiah’s story, we need to rewind to Deuteronomy 17. God gave Israel detailed instructions for life in the Promised Land, including a very specific list of rules for kings.

God’s expectations were high:

• The king must be an Israelite.

• He must not gather many horses (a symbol of military might).

• He must not take many wives.

• He must not seek great wealth.

• Most importantly, he must write out a personal copy of the Law, keep it with him, and read it every day.

This wasn’t busy work. It was a spiritual safeguard:

“…that he may learn to fear the Lord his God…” (Deut. 17:19)
It would keep the king’s heart humble and his leadership aligned with God’s will.

But fast forward a few hundred years, and this command had long been forgotten.

Josiah’s Reign: A Light in the Darkness

Josiah became king of Judah at just eight years old, following the assassination of his father, King Amon. The two kings before him—Amon and Manasseh—were deeply wicked. Manasseh, in particular, led Judah into decades of rebellion and idolatry. Together, their reigns totaled 57 years of disobedience.

Josiah inherited a spiritual wasteland.

But something remarkable happened in the 18th year of his reign (around age 26). During a temple renovation project, the high priest Hilkiah found the Book of the Law—likely the Torah. He handed it to Shaphan the secretary, who read it aloud to the king.

And Josiah’s reaction was immediate and raw.

“When the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his clothes.”
(2 Kings 22:11)

A King’s Heart Torn Open

Tearing one’s garments in ancient times was a sign of deep grief and conviction. Josiah realized just how far Judah had wandered from God’s ways.

He was overcome with:

• Grief for generations of disobedience

• Fear of God’s righteous judgment

• Dread of what was coming

• Responsibility as a leader

But instead of wallowing in despair, he took action. Josiah sent his advisors to inquire of the Lord—not just for himself, but for all of Judah.

Enter Huldah the Prophetess

The delegation found Huldah, a prophetess living in Jerusalem’s Second Quarter. She is introduced not only by name, but by her lineage, and her husband.

God spoke powerfully through Huldah:

Destruction would come. Judah’s rebellion had provoked God's wrath for too long.
But Josiah would be spared, because he had responded with a penitent heart, humility, and tears.

“Because your heart was penitent… I also have heard you, declares the Lord.”
(2 Kings 22:19)

Huldah’s prophecy was not new revelation. It was a confirmation of what was already written. God’s Word had spoken—she simply affirmed its truth and coming fulfillment.

The Power of a Soft Heart

Josiah’s story reminds us that spiritual renewal begins with the Word of God and a heart willing to respond.

In 2 Kings 23, Josiah takes sweeping action:

• He gathers the people and reads the Book of the Law aloud.

• He tears down idolatrous altars and destroys pagan shrines.

• He restores the Passover, a sign of covenant renewal.

It’s one of the most comprehensive reforms in Israel’s history—and it all started when one man heard the Word of God and let it pierce his heart.

Reflection and Application

Josiah never would have known what to do if he hadn’t heard God’s Word. And he wouldn’t have feared the Lord if he hadn’t responded in humility.

Ask yourself:

• Do I treat Scripture like it’s sacred?

• Is my heart still soft when I’m convicted?

• Am I willing to act—no matter the cost—when God calls me to real change?

Breakout Questions (for group or personal study)

1. Why do you think the practice of writing and reading the Law was so important for kings?

2. What stands out to you about Josiah’s response? How might we imitate his humility today?

3. How does Huldah’s role challenge or encourage you in how God uses women in His purposes?

4. In what ways might our culture mirror the spiritual neglect of Josiah’s time?

5. What would it look like for you to lead spiritual renewal—in your home, church, or community?

Her Part in the Larger Story

Huldah faithfully spoke God’s word to King Josiah. His penitent response led to the people's spiritual renewal and the delay of God’s destruction, judgment, and exile. God used her to reveal His will and preserve His kingdom. May He also use us to speak His truth into the situations we face.