“But while in deep distress, Manasseh sought the LORD his God and sincerely humbled himself before the God of his ancestors. And when he prayed, the LORD listened to him and was moved by his request. So the LORD brought Manasseh back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh finally realized that the LORD alone is God.”
2 Chronicles 33:12-13 NLT
Have you ever thought, “How could THAT person ever be forgiven by God?” That was my thought when I read this list of atrocities King Manasseh performed:
-Rebuilt pagan shrines his father had demolished
- Constructed altars for Baal
- Set up Asherah poles
- Worshiped the powers of heaven
- Built pagan altars IN the Temple
- Sacrificed his own sons in the fire
- Practiced sorcery, divination, and witchcraft
- Consulted mediums and psychics
- Made a carved idol and set it up IN the Temple
- Ignored all of God’s warnings
However, after the Babylonians put a ring in his nose, bound him in chains, and led him away captive, Manasseh sought the LORD his God and sincerely humbled himself before the God of his ancestors. And the Lord listened to him!
Could there be a more amazing story of grace? After all those incredible acts of rebellion against God, the Lord not only listened, but His heart was moved. God even freed Manasseh from prison and brought him HOME!
So, no matter what your rebellious past may have been, no matter who put the hook in your nose, no matter what kind of chain binds you or in what prison cell you sleep, when you humbly cry out to God, He WILL listen!
And HIS amazing grace will bring you HOME!
Comments