2 Chronicles 34:27

because your heart was tender and you humbled yourself before God when you heard His words against this place and against its people, and because you have humbled yourself before Me and you have torn your clothes and wept before Me, I have heard you,' declares the LORD.

Study Bible

Because your heart was tender
The phrase "heart was tender" refers to a sensitivity and openness to God's word and will. In Hebrew, the word for "tender" is "rak," which implies softness or gentleness. This tenderness is a spiritual quality that allows one to be receptive to divine instruction and correction. Historically, a tender heart is seen as a virtue, indicating a willingness to be molded by God, contrasting with a hardened heart that resists His guidance.

and you humbled yourself before God
Humility before God is a central theme in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of recognizing one's own limitations and the sovereignty of God. The Hebrew root "kana" means to bring low or to subdue oneself. This act of humility is not just an outward expression but an inward acknowledgment of God's authority and one's own need for His mercy and guidance.

when you heard His words against this place and its people
Hearing God's words implies an active listening and understanding of His message. The context here is the prophetic words of judgment against Judah and Jerusalem due to their disobedience. The historical backdrop involves the reforms of King Josiah, who sought to restore true worship in Judah. The phrase underscores the importance of responding to God's warnings with a contrite heart.

and because you humbled yourself before Me
Repetition of the act of humbling oneself highlights its significance. It is a deliberate act of submission to God's will. The personal pronoun "Me" emphasizes the direct relationship between the individual and God, indicating that true humility is recognized and valued by the Lord.

and tore your clothes and wept before Me
Tearing one's clothes and weeping were traditional expressions of grief, repentance, and earnest supplication in ancient Israel. These actions are outward signs of an inward reality, demonstrating genuine sorrow for sin and a desire for reconciliation with God. Archaeological findings have shown that such practices were common in the Near Eastern cultures as a way to express deep emotional states.

I have heard you, declares the LORD
The assurance "I have heard you" is a powerful affirmation of God's responsiveness to sincere repentance. The Hebrew word "shama" means to hear, listen, or obey, indicating that God is attentive to the cries of those who seek Him with a pure heart. The declaration by the LORD Himself underscores His faithfulness and readiness to forgive and restore those who turn to Him in humility and faith. This promise is a source of hope and encouragement for believers, affirming that God is always near to those who call upon Him in truth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Josiah
The King of Judah who initiated religious reforms and sought to restore the worship of Yahweh. His heart was tender towards God, leading to significant spiritual renewal in the nation.

2. Jerusalem
The central place of worship and the location of the temple, which had fallen into disrepair and idolatry before Josiah's reforms.

3. Huldah the Prophetess
A prophetess in Jerusalem who confirmed the words of the Book of the Law found in the temple, leading to Josiah's repentance and reforms.

4. The Book of the Law
Discovered during temple repairs, this book (likely Deuteronomy) revealed the nation's disobedience and prompted Josiah's reforms.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who responds to Josiah's humility and repentance with mercy.

Teaching Points

The Power of a Tender Heart
Josiah's tender heart towards God led to personal and national transformation. A tender heart is open to God's word and responsive to His correction.

Humility Before God
True humility involves recognizing our shortcomings and turning to God in repentance. Josiah's humility was demonstrated through his actions—tearing his clothes and weeping.

The Importance of God's Word
The rediscovery of the Book of the Law was pivotal in bringing about reform. Regular engagement with Scripture is essential for spiritual renewal.

God's Response to Repentance
God hears and responds to those who humble themselves before Him. His mercy is extended to those who seek Him with a contrite heart.

Leadership and Influence
Josiah's personal commitment to God influenced the entire nation. Godly leadership can lead others towards righteousness and revival.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Josiah's response to the Book of the Law challenge us in our personal engagement with Scripture today?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a tender heart towards God in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of humility in 2 Chronicles 34:27 relate to the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to lead others towards spiritual renewal, as Josiah did?

5. How can we ensure that our repentance is genuine and not just an emotional response? What role does ongoing obedience play in this process?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 22
This parallel account provides additional details about Josiah's reforms and the discovery of the Book of the Law.

Deuteronomy 10:16
This verse calls for the circumcision of the heart, which aligns with Josiah's tender heart and humility before God.

Psalm 51:17
Highlights the importance of a broken and contrite heart, which God does not despise, similar to Josiah's response.

James 4:6
Emphasizes that God gives grace to the humble, reflecting the divine response to Josiah's humility.