This verse is the official epitaph for king Josiah. It says, “Before him there was no king like him, who turned to the Lord with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his might, according to all the Law of Moses, nor did any like him arise after him. ”
In the Apocryphal book, “The Wisdom of Solomon,” the reign of King Josiah is celebrated as one of the greatest in all of Judah’s history. Although most protestants do not acknowledge this text as inspired, we might all accept it as another great epitaph for a great king who tried to live his life in accordance with God’s word. Here’s what is written: The name of Josiah is as sweet-smelling incense, That is well mixed, the work of the apothecary. The mention of him is sweet in the palate as honey, and as music at a banquet of wine. For he was grieved at our backsliding, and put an end to the vain abominations. And he gave his heart wholly unto God, And in days of violence he practiced piety.” (The Wisdom of Solomon 49:1-3).
Some day we will all leave the world with a flavor from our existence. I would like mine, as I’m sure you would too, to be as sweet as Josiah’s. Though he died nearly 3000 years ago, we still know about him and how he lived his life according to God’s word.
I think D. L. Moody’s epitaph says it all. It was taken from 1 John 2:17. If you visit his grave you will read, ““He that doeth the will of God abideth forever.”
Chuck
“The purpose of my instruction is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith.” 1 Timothy 1:5