Revival was breaking out in Israel/Judah under the leadership of Hezekiah. Hezekiah had cleansed the temple of the idolatry that his father had brought in, he had reached out to his brothers/enemies in northern Israel to come celebrate the Passover together in Jerusalem, and at that event there was so much joy that they extended their celebration seven more days. But it didn’t stop there.
Refreshed and rejuvenated in the LORD, “all Israel” and not just the king, but “all Israel who had attended went out to the cities of Judah and broke up the sacred pillars, chopped down the Asherah poles and tore down the high places and altars throughout Judah and Benjamin, as well as Ephraim and Manasseh, to the last one” (2 Chr 31:1).
This was an incredible moment. Because it was the people recognizing their sinfulness and taking ownership of cleansing the land. It wasn’t the king’s order but “all Israel.” But revival was just beginning as it was going to show up in another area.
For years the priests and Levites were not able to do their work because the people had not been giving to the temple. Without support, the people of God had to return to work the land.
But Hezekiah called on everyone to bring their tithe to the temple. And they did. They all brought their tenth. And here’s a fruit that often accompanies revival: They gave generously.
“When the word spread, the Israelites gave liberally of the best of the grain, new wine, oil, honey, and all of the produce of the field, and they brought in an abundance, a tenth of everything” (2 Chr 31:5).
The gifts made it possible that they could do the work of the Lord again. Previously they had not been able to do so. And now there was an abundance to resume their work in the ministry to the Lord. And men of integrity were set over them to handle the offerings and distribute to the famlilies accordingly.
“Hezekiah did this throughout all Judah. He did what was good and upright and true before the LORD his God. He was diligent in every deed that he began in the service of God’s temple, in the instruction and the commands, in order to seek his God, and he prospered” (2 Chr 31:20-21).
It was a glorious time. God was moving in the heart of men and women as evidenced by their actions. But soon a real test was coming. One that would shake them to their core. Would they trust the LORD when their very existence was on the line?
