2. Convicted by truth when they encounter it Convicted by truth when they encounter it –Josiah tore his clothes and wept at the word of the Lord (22:11, 19) –Hard hearts resist truth – they will not hear it or accept it (Matt. 13:15) –Today, tender hearts are convicted by truth when they hear it  Convicted by doctrinal matters  Convicted by practical matters

3. Convinced every Bible lesson is aimed at them personally Convinced every Bible lesson is aimed at them personally –Josiah’s first application was to himself—“Inquire of the Lord for me” (22:13 + 23:1-25) –Hard hearts resist application – they will deflect it to others & not self (John 12:42-48) –Today, tender hearts are convinced Bible lessons are pointed at them  Receptive to Bible lessons that teach change, repentance, correction, obedience, urgency, confrontation, step-it-up  Not afraid or too proud to take immediate action

4. Consent to the blame when the wrong may not be theirs Consent to the blame when the wrong may not be theirs –Josiah was willing to accept blame & consequences for the wrong of others (22:13)  “They” had forsaken God and worshiped idols (22:17)  “They” had provoked God to anger (22:17)  “They” would become a desolation and a curse (22:19)  Josiah included himself in the impending wrath—“us” (22:13) –Hard hearts resist blame – they will not accept it (Matt. 18:17) –Today, tender hearts will consent to blame when the wrong may not be theirs  Turn the other cheek, accept defrauding – Luke 6:29  Accept wrong and be cheated – 1 Cor. 6:7  Go as far as personally possible for peace – Rom. 12:18-19

5. Crowned with a special blessing from the Lord Crowned with a special blessing from the Lord –Josiah was given special consideration from God (22:19b-20) –Hard hearts receive the “other” special consideration from God (Heb. 3:7-11, 18-19) –Today, tender hearts will be crowned with a special blessing from God (1 Pet. 3:8-12)  If they truly believe that Jesus is God’s Son – John 1:12  If they truly repent of their sins – Acts 2:38  If they confess their faith in Jesus – Matthew 10:32  If they are immersed into Christ – John 3:5  If they serve the Lord faithfully – 1 Corinthians 15:58