Introduction:
Joash, also known as Jehoash, was a king of Judah whose reign is chronicled in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles. His account is one of both promise and tragedy, marked by a significant religious reform and a subsequent decline into idolatry. Joash's reign is a testament to the influence of godly counsel and the dangers of turning away from it.

Background:
Joash was the son of Ahaziah, king of Judah, and his mother was Zibiah of Beersheba. His ascent to the throne was fraught with danger, as his grandmother, Athaliah, sought to exterminate the royal line of David. However, Joash was saved by his aunt Jehosheba and hidden in the temple for six years (2 Kings 11:2-3). At the age of seven, Joash was anointed king in a coup led by the high priest Jehoiada (2 Kings 11:12).

Religious Reforms:
Under the guidance of Jehoiada, Joash initiated significant religious reforms. He is noted for his efforts to restore the temple, which had fallen into disrepair during the reign of Athaliah. Joash instructed the priests to collect funds for the temple's restoration, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the house of the LORD (2 Kings 12:4-5). The project was successful, and the temple was restored to its former glory, reflecting Joash's initial commitment to the worship of Yahweh.

Influence of Jehoiada:
Jehoiada's influence on Joash was profound. As long as the high priest lived, Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD (2 Kings 12:2). Jehoiada's presence provided Joash with the spiritual and moral guidance necessary to lead Judah in accordance with God's laws. The covenant between the LORD, the king, and the people, renewed under Jehoiada's leadership, was a pivotal moment in Joash's reign (2 Kings 11:17).

Decline and Apostasy:
Tragically, after Jehoiada's death, Joash's reign took a turn for the worse. He succumbed to the influence of the officials of Judah, who led him into idolatry. Joash abandoned the temple of the LORD and worshiped Asherah poles and idols, provoking God's anger (2 Chronicles 24:17-18). Despite warnings from prophets, including Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, Joash refused to repent. In a grievous act of betrayal, Joash ordered the stoning of Zechariah in the temple court (2 Chronicles 24:20-21).

Military Challenges and Death:
Joash's later years were marked by military challenges. Hazael, king of Aram, threatened Jerusalem, and Joash resorted to paying tribute from the temple treasures to avert disaster (2 Kings 12:17-18). His reign ended in tragedy when he was assassinated by his own officials at Beth Millo, a consequence of his departure from the ways of the LORD (2 Kings 12:20-21).

Legacy:
Joash's reign serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of steadfast faith and the dangers of forsaking godly counsel. His initial reforms and dedication to the temple highlight the potential for righteous leadership, while his later apostasy underscores the peril of turning away from God. Joash was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings, reflecting the mixed legacy of his reign (2 Chronicles 24:25).