What Does Jehovah's Forgiveness Mean for You? - MANASSEH SINS SERIOUSLY BUT LATER REPENTS

The Bible gives another example that shows that Jehovah is willing to forgive even extremely serious sins. About 360 years after David began to rule, Manasseh became king of Judah and reigned for 55 years. Jehovah condemned him for the disgusting sins he committed during his time.  For example, Manasseh made altars to Baal; worshipped the sun, moon, and stars; burned his sons as a sacrifice to a false god; and encouraged people to practice spiritism.  "He did on a  grand scale what was bad in the eyes of Jehovah. - 2 CHRONICLES 33:1-6.

Eventually, Manasseh was captured and taken to a prison in Babylon.  There he may have remembered these words of Moses to Israel: "When you are in sore straits and all these words have found you out at the close of the days, then you will have to return to Jehovah your God and listen to his voice." (Deuteronomy 4:30)   Manasseh did return to Jehovah. How?  He  "kept humbling himself greatly" and "kept praying" to God. (2 Chronicles 33:12, 13)  The Bible does  not tells exactly what words Manasseh said in those prayers, but it is possible it is similar to the words of King David in Psalm 51.  Either way, we do know that Manasseh completely changed his attitude.

What did Jehovah do when Manasseh prayed to him?  Jehovah "heard his request for favor." Manasseh understood how serious his sins were and was truly repentant like David. That is why God forgave Manasseh and allowed him to come back to Jerusalem as king. As a result, "Manasseh came to know that Jehovah is the true God." (2 Chronicles 33:13)  It is very comforting to learn from this example too that Jehovah is merciful and forgives those who are truly repentant!

Next time: What Does Jehovah's Forgiveness Mean for You? - DOES JEHOVAH ALWAYS FORGIVE?

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