Let’s face the reality and truth: Our faith is going to be tested time and time again. Much of the time, there are going to be those seasons where our faith is not tested through seasons of silence. Instead, they are going to be tested through seasons where there are clamor and noise.

The Assyrian voice outside the wall is quite loud. The threat is very public. The accusation is calculated. And the enemy does not merely attack Jerusalem’s defenses; the enemy attacks Jerusalem’s confidence in God. I want to say this again: The enemy does not merely attack Jerusalem’s defenses because the enemy attacks Jerusalem’s confidence in God. This becomes a powerful tension in 2 Kings 16-25. For good reason, because the issue is not only whether Judah is capable of surviving Assyria or Babylon. The deeper question is whether God’s people will trust the Lord when worldly power looks more practical than covenant faithfulness.

This week’s Come Follow Me lesson, “He Trusted in the Lord God of Israel,” places us in some of the darkest years of Israel and Judah’s history. The Northern Kingdom is conquered and scattered by Assyria. Whereas the Southern Kingdom struggles with idolatry, compromise, fear, reform, and eventual destruction. Yet in the middle of spiritual rebellion and decline, two kings stand out: Kink Hezekiah, who trusted the Lord when Jerusalem was threatened, and King Josiah who seemed to turn to scripture and renew covenants when the Book of the Law was rediscovered. The latter resulting in what scholars refer to as the Deuteronomist Reform or the Josiah Reformation. Bridging first temple Judaism with the movement toward what will become the Second Temple era of Jewish history.

The contrast here is quite sobering as Ahaz looked to Assyria for security and compromised the First Temple – or Solomon’s Temple. While Hezekiah seemed to turn to look unto the Lord and went to the temple in prayer. Josiah heard the scriptures, humbled himself, and led a reform that reshaped Jewish history and religious worship. Zedekiah rebelled and Babylon rose up – bringing destruction upon Jerusalem. It’s destruction of the city and temple a fulfillment of prophecy the Jew’s of First Temple Jerusalem refused to accept.

These chapters teach that trust is not something built upon sentimental optimism. Trust is built on covenantal loyalty while under pressure and enduring the refiner’s fire.

When Fear Offers a Shortcut

King Ahaz shows us one of the great temptations of discipleship: using worldly power to solve spiritual fear. Scripture Helps explains that Ahaz faced immense pressure from Israel and Syria, receiving prophetic counsel from Isaiah to rely on the Lord for his protection. Despite this divine encouragement, Ahaz chose instead to seek the assistance of Assyria, a decision that ultimately led him down a path of destruction. This initial choice set the stage for a series of troubling actions; after forging that alliance, Ahaz continued in apostasy, altering temple worship practices, and promoting idolatry throughout Judah, leading his people away from the true worship of God.

This narrative reveals the danger of fear-driven compromise. Initially, such compromises may seem reasonable and even logical. They promise immediate relief from anxiety and appear practical, strategic, and safe in times of turmoil. However, when fear becomes our guiding counselor, we often find ourselves altering sacred practices to accommodate the demands of our circumstances. Ahaz did not merely make a pragmatic political move; he allowed the pervasive grip of fear to fundamentally reshape the worship of God, diminishing the sacredness of rituals established by divine command.

The implications of Ahaz’s choices bear direct relevance for us today. While we may not find ourselves forming alliances with ancient empires like Assyria, we face similar pressures in our own lives. We are constantly confronted with the temptation to place our trust in worldly things—be it cultural approval, financial security, the allure of intellectual pride, political identities, the desire for personal control, or the quest for social acceptance. These influences can easily eclipse our reliance on God.

The critical question we must confront is not merely, “Do I believe in God?” but rather, “When pressure rises, where do I actually go for safety?” In moments of crisis or uncertainty, do we instinctively turn to God, or do we seek refuge in the transient comforts of the world? The story of King Ahaz serves as a stark reminder to evaluate our own responses to fear and the choices we make when faced with challenges. Let us strive to nurture an unwavering trust in the Lord, seeking His wisdom and guidance rather than succumbing to the panic-driven compromises that can lead us astray. This commitment requires us to remain vigilant and discerning in our spiritual journey, ensuring that our faith is firmly anchored in the character and promises of God rather than the shifting sands of worldly expectations.

Hezekiah Spread It Before the Lord

Hezekiah’s response is the turning point. When the Assyrians mock Judah’s faith and threaten Jerusalem, Hezekiah does not answer pride with pride. He does not pretend the threat is unreal. He takes the letter, goes into the house of the Lord, and spreads it before God. His prayer is an act of trust.

The official lesson invites us to compare the Assyrians’ reasons for not trusting the Lord with the reasons Satan gives us today to doubt our faith. That is a powerful move for personal reflection because the enemy’s strategy has not changed much. He still mocks covenant trust. He still exaggerates worldly power. He still points to visible evidence and asks, “Where is your God now?”

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland’s message “Fear Not: Believe Only!” pairs beautifully with this part of the lesson. He centers his message on the Savior’s words, “Fear not: believe only,” and reminds disciples that help is available from others and especially from God.

Hezekiah embodies that invitation. He does not deny the fear; he brings the fear to the Lord.

This is where the lesson becomes personal. What letter do you need to spread before the Lord? What threat, anxiety, diagnosis, accusation, financial pressure, family burden, doubt, or temptation needs to be placed before Him in prayer? Hezekiah teaches us that covenant trust does not begin by having all the answers. It begins by turning toward God before turning toward panic.

The Lord Is Not Intimidated by Assyria

The Assyrian king had every earthly reason to believe Jerusalem would fall. Assyria was a dominant empire, renowned for its military might and relentless conquests. History shows us that the Assyrians were infamous for methods that included devastation, torture, and the forced resettlement of entire populations. From a worldly standpoint, Sennacherib’s confidence was well-founded; he could view Jerusalem as a small and vulnerable city in the shadow of his powerful empire. Assyria was perceived as an unstoppable force, marching forward with the confidence of near-absolute power.

However, the narrative takes a compelling turn when considering the divine perspective. The Lord is not intimidated by the size of the army amassed outside the walls of Jerusalem. This lesson highlights a profound truth: all things, including the fate of nations and cities, rest firmly in the Lord’s hands. This invites believers to delve deeper into the message the Lord imparted through His prophet Isaiah, particularly as documented in 2 Kings 19.

In this pivotal moment, King Hezekiah faced a grave crisis. Rather than succumbing to despair, he turned to the Lord in prayer, seeking strength and guidance. Isaiah, responding to Hezekiah’s plea, delivered a prophecy that foreshadowed the miraculous intervention of God. As a result of this divine engagement, Jerusalem was spared from destruction, demonstrating that faith and reliance on God’s promises can alter the course of events dramatically.

It’s essential to note that while this particular crisis ended with a monumental victory for faith, it does not imply that every earthly crisis will yield the same outcome for believers. The challenges faced by individuals and communities vary significantly; some may endure trials that do not resolve favorably in the immediate sense. Nevertheless, this account serves as a stark reminder that worldly power, no matter how formidable it may appear, is never ultimate.

Even though empires may rise and fall, such as Babylon’s ascent after Assyria, and even though enemies may surround and threaten, God remains sovereign. His covenant promises stand firm and are not nullified by the most powerful or loudest voices in the room. This assurance encourages believers to maintain their faith, trusting that regardless of circumstances—political, social, or personal—God’s authority prevails and His purposes will ultimately be achieved.

Josiah and the Reform That Begins with Scripture

If Hezekiah teaches trust under attack, Josiah teaches reform through scripture. In 2 Kings 22–23, the book of the law is discovered in the temple, read to Josiah, and the king responds with humility, grief, repentance, and covenant renewal. The discovery of this sacred text significantly impacts the trajectory of Judah’s spiritual journey. Scripture Helps notes that the book was likely a version of Deuteronomy or may have included more of the Pentateuch, emphasizing that its words deeply affected Josiah and catalyzed major religious reforms within his kingdom.

President Spencer W. Kimball called Josiah’s story “one of the finest stories in all of the scriptures” and taught that we must return to the scriptures and let them work mightily within us. This phrase is particularly significant as it underscores an essential aspect of engagement with scripture: it is not merely a collection of historical texts or theological information; it is inherently transformative. Scripture is meant to work within us, challenging our preconceptions and beliefs. It exposes drift—those subtle movements away from vital faithfulness to God. Through scripture, we are awoken to the necessity of repentance, allowing ourselves to confront areas in our lives where we may have strayed from God’s intentions.

Further, scripture restores covenant memory, reminding us of the promises and commitments we made in our relationship with God. It instructs us on the importance of fidelity and integrity in our covenantal obligations. Moreover, it teaches us to recognize and confront where we have normalized what God calls idolatry. In our modern context, this can translate to anything that distracts us from our devotion to God, whether it be materialism, distractions, or misplaced priorities. Ultimately, Josiah’s story encourages us to hold fast to the scriptures, allowing them to serve as both a guide and a mirror, reflecting our true spiritual state and leading to lasting change in our lives and communities.

Josiah’s reform is not casual inspiration. It is whole-souled covenant return. When the people heard the book of the law, they entered again into covenant with the Lord. Scripture Helps explains that “stood to the covenant” likely referred to a formal covenant-renewal ceremony, pledging to keep the covenant with all their heart.

Covenant Trust in a Babylon World

Elder Thierry K. Mutombo’s April 2026 message, “The Joy of a Covenant Relationship with God,” provides a profound modern connection to Josiah’s covenant renewal. His message begins with the powerful assurance that no matter where we find ourselves or what challenges we are facing, we can always feel God’s infinite love through Jesus Christ. This understanding is essential because the concept of covenant goes beyond mere religious duty: it embodies a deep and abiding relationship with God through the grace of Christ.

Elder Mutombo encourages us to embrace this relationship, suggesting that it can bring profound joy and transformation into our lives. By recognizing the significance of our covenant with God, we can navigate life’s trials with a sense of purpose and strength, rooted in the love that Christ offers us.

This message beautifully intertwines with Elder Jörg Klebingat’s teachings on valiant discipleship. He emphasizes the importance of being confident rather than apologetic, valiant instead of timid, and faithful instead of fearful as we strive to uphold the Lord’s light in the latter days. Such qualities are essential as we encounter challenges and opposition in our spiritual journeys. For example, in the face of the Assyrian mockery, Hezekiah exemplifies this kind of unwavering faith. Similarly, Josiah demonstrates steadfast commitment when scripture calls for significant reform, showing that true discipleship requires both courage and action.

Furthermore, the hymn “Let Us All Press On” serves as a beautiful expression of the spirit encapsulated in this lesson. It is a hymn that inspires forward-moving faith, courage, and confidence in the Lord. This hymn resonates powerfully with Hezekiah’s unwavering trust, Josiah’s decisive reforms, and the call to remain steadfast and faithful when we face opposition. Singing this hymn can strengthen our resolve, reminding us that, despite difficulties, our covenant relationship with God empowers us to advance in faith and confidence. By embracing these principles, we cultivate a vibrant and resilient faith that propels us forward on our spiritual journeys.

Acrostic – T.R.U.S.T. Pattern for 2 Kings 16–25

T — Turn to the Lord First: Anchor Verse: 2 Kings 19:14 – Hezekiah received the threatening letter, went to the house of the Lord, and spread it before Him. Trust begins when we bring our fears into God’s presence before we surrender to panic. It is in these moments of deep distress that we find the strength to release our burdens to God. Rather than allowing anxiety to consume us, turning to the Lord invites peace into our hearts. In times of trouble, seeking God’s guidance and strength is the first step towards overcoming despair.

R — Reject Fear-Driven Compromise: Anchor Verse: 2 Kings 18:5–6 – Hezekiah trusted in the Lord God of Israel and clave to Him. Unlike Ahaz, Hezekiah did not make fear his counselor. Covenant discipleship requires us to resist the shortcuts that weaken worship. It is easy to compromise our values when fear looms large, but choosing to stay true to our faith strengthens our resolve. By standing firm in our beliefs and resisting the temptations that the world presents, we affirm our reliance on God and His promises. Fear may whisper for us to take the easy road, but true faith challenges us to remain steadfast.

U — Understand That God Rules Over Nations: Anchor Verse: 2 Kings 19:20 – Through Isaiah, the Lord declared that He had heard Hezekiah’s prayer. The Lord was not absent from Judah’s crisis. He was sovereign over the threat that seemed overwhelming. Recognizing God’s sovereignty gives us a profound assurance amid chaos. It reminds us that no matter the circumstances we face, He is ultimately in control. This understanding fosters a deep sense of peace and purpose, knowing that our God has the power to change hearts, circumstances, and even the course of nations in our favor.

S — Search the Scriptures and Let Them Search You: Anchor Verse: 2 Kings 22:11 – When Josiah heard the words of the book of the law, he rent his clothes. Real scripture study does more than comfort us; it reforms us. Engaging deeply with the Scriptures allows us to confront our shortcomings and draw closer to God’s will for our lives. It is a transformative process that encourages reflection and change. As we allow the Word to penetrate our hearts, we gain wisdom and direction for our journey, leading to a more profound faith and obedience.

T — Take Your Stand in the Covenant: Anchor Verse: 2 Kings 23:3 – Josiah and the people stood to the covenant, committing themselves to walk after the Lord with all their heart and soul. Trust becomes visible when it turns into covenant loyalty. This commitment to God’s covenant reflects a deeper, more abiding relationship. It is not merely about belief but about actions that align with that belief. When we take a stand in our covenant relationship with God, we not only affirm our devotion but also inspire others in our community to join in this sacred commitment. Through unity and shared faith, we become a powerful witness to God’s love and grace in our lives.

Thoughtful Reflection

1. Ahaz: When fear chooses Assyria
   • In what ways do I allow fear to influence my decisions and compromise my trust in God?
   • How can I realign my worship to focus on God’s sovereignty rather than my fears?
2. Hezekiah: When faith spreads the letter before the Lord
   • What burdens or concerns am I currently carrying that I need to bring before God in prayer?
   • How can I cultivate a heart that seeks to lay my worries at God’s feet, trusting in His guidance and provision?
3. Josiah: When scripture exposes the need for reform
   • What does scripture reveal about areas in my life that require repentance or change?
   • How can I commit to a deeper study of the Word to facilitate personal and spiritual renewal?
4. Jerusalem and Babylon: When ignored warnings become consequences
   • What warnings have I overlooked in my spiritual journey that may lead to negative consequences?
   • How can I respond to God’s call to return and gather, recognizing both the gravity of my choices and the hope of restoration?

Closing Call to Action

This week, take one fear, one burden, or one spiritual concern and spread it before the Lord in prayer, laying it bare and unguarded at His feet. Then, take one passage of scripture and let it search you deeply. Not just inspire you or provide surface-level comfort, but let it truly reform you from within, challenging your thoughts, beliefs, and actions. Just as Hezekiah trusted the Lord courageously under great threat and adversity, and Josiah renewed the covenant with fervor after hearing the transformative word of God, we are invited to do the same. The invitation is the same for us: trust the Lord fully with our entire hearts, return wholeheartedly to the scriptures that guide our lives, and stand firm in the covenant that binds us to Him. In this act of faith and dedication, we find purpose, strength, and a renewed sense of belonging in His presence. Embrace this opportunity for profound change and draw nearer to the source of all hope and truth.