And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and walked in all the way of David his father, and he did not turn aside to the right or to the left.
English Standard Version (ESV)
It's so easy to focus on Josiah's good deeds, but this verse highlights something even more profound: his steadfastness. He didn't just do what was right sometimes; he walked in his father David's path without veering "to the right or to the left," showing a remarkable commitment to God's ways, even when it wasn't the popular or easy route. This isn't about perfection, but about a deliberate and consistent turning toward God.
And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and walked in all the way of David his father, and he did not turn aside to the right or to the left.
English Standard Version (ESV)
King Josiah is a young ruler facing a kingdom steeped in the idolatry and disobedience of previous generations. This verse introduces him as a contrast to his predecessors, highlighting his commitment to God's law amidst widespread corruption. His reign will be defined by his earnest desire to reform Judah and restore true worship after the discovery of the Book of the Law.
Josiah's reign is praised for following his ancestor David. What does it mean to truly emulate a godly predecessor?
Following the Path
The verse highlights Josiah's commitment to walking in the "way of David." This isn't just about mimicking actions, but adopting a heart posture and a consistent devotion to God. David, despite his flaws, was known as a man after God's own heart. Josiah's reign is measured against this standard, showing that true faithfulness involves actively pursuing the principles and commands that David (and by extension, God) valued.
Josiah didn't just do some things right; he was committed to staying on course. What's the secret to avoiding spiritual detours?
Unwavering Devotion
The phrase "did not turn aside to the right or to the left" is powerful. It speaks of integrity and unwavering commitment. In a world that constantly pulls us in different directions, this describes a deliberate and consistent choice to obey God's commands above all else. It means resisting the temptation to compromise, to follow popular trends, or to drift into sin, no matter how small the deviation may seem.
Understand the original words
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YHWH · Hebrew Proper Noun
The covenant name of the God of Israel, YHWH, who reveals Himself as the faithful, self-existent One who enters into a redemptive relationship with His people.
derek · Hebrew Noun
A pattern of conduct or a habitual way of living that reflects one’s spiritual orientation and adherence to God's commandments.
Josiah's reign is remarkable because it occurred during a period of intense spiritual decay and looming geopolitical threats, making his commitment to God's Word and righteous living a beacon of hope.
c. 722 BC
Fall of the Northern Kingdom
The Assyrian Empire conquers the Northern Kingdom of Israel, deporting many citizens. This event served as a stark warning to the Southern Kingdom of Judah about the consequences of disobedience to God.
c. 640 BC
Josiah Becomes King of Judah
Josiah ascends to the throne of Judah at just eight years old, following the assassination of his father, Amon. His reign would become known for significant religious reforms.
c. 622 BC— this verse
Discovery of the Book of the Law
During renovations in the Temple, Hilkiah the priest discovers a scroll believed to be the Book of the Law. This discovery sparks Josiah's intense repentance and reform movement.
c. 622 BC
Josiah's Religious Reforms Begin
Upon hearing the Law read, Josiah institutes sweeping reforms, destroying idolatrous shrines, centralizing worship in Jerusalem, and celebrating a Passover unlike any since the time of the Judges.
609 BC
Death of Josiah
Josiah is killed in battle at Megiddo while attempting to intercept the Egyptian army. His death is mourned as a national tragedy, marking the end of a golden era of reform.
c. 605 BC
First Deportation to Babylon
Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon conquers Judah, beginning a series of deportations that would eventually lead to the exile of its people. This marks the decline of Judah's political and spiritual fortunes.
This passage highlights that true faithfulness to God is a choice that can be passed down, as Solomon was promised stability if he followed God like David, emphasizing the legacy of righteous living.
Deuteronomy 5:32This verse directly echoes the instruction to carefully follow the LORD's commands without deviation, reinforcing the idea that Josiah's faithfulness was a deliberate adherence to God's law.
Psalm 119:1This psalm beautifully describes the blessedness of those who walk in the law of the LORD, paralleling Josiah's 'blameless' walk and his commitment to God's statutes.
Proverbs 4:27This proverb provides wisdom on staying on the right path, directly illustrating the principle behind Josiah not turning 'to the right or to the left,' urging a focused commitment to godly living.
It's so easy to focus on Josiah's good deeds, but this verse highlights something even more profound: his steadfastness. He didn't just do what was right sometimes; he walked in his father David's path without veering "to the right or to the left," showing a remarkable commitment to God's ways, even when it wasn't the popular or easy route. This isn't about perfection, but about a deliberate and consistent turning toward God.
King Josiah is a young ruler facing a kingdom steeped in the idolatry and disobedience of previous generations. This verse introduces him as a contrast to his predecessors, highlighting his commitment to God's law amidst widespread corruption. His reign will be defined by his earnest desire to reform Judah and restore true worship after the discovery of the Book of the Law.
King Josiah is a young ruler facing a kingdom steeped in the idolatry and disobedience of previous generations. This verse introduces him as a contrast to his predecessors, highlighting his commitment to God's law amidst widespread corruption. His reign will be defined by his earnest desire to reform Judah and restore true worship after the discovery of the Book of the Law.
"And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and walked in all the way of David his father, and he did not turn aside to the right or to the left." — It's so easy to focus on Josiah's good deeds, but this verse highlights something even more profound: his steadfastness. He didn't just do what was right sometimes; he walked in his father David'…
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Last reviewed October 2026