Now when ¹  the days drew near ²  for him to be taken up, ³  Jesus ⁴  set out resolutely ⁵  to go to Jerusalem. ⁶ 

I will establish his kingdom permanently, if he remains committed to obeying my commands and regulations, as you are doing this day.’ ¹ 

When ¹  he came and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain true ²  to the Lord with devoted hearts, ³ 

Create for me a pure heart, O God! ¹  Renew a resolute spirit within me! ² 

Stay alert, stand firm in the faith, show courage, be strong.

Hezekiah ¹  energetically rebuilt ²  every broken wall. He erected towers and an outer wall, ³  and fortified the terrace of the City of David. ⁴  He made many weapons and shields.

I myself will set my face against that man and his clan. I will cut off from the midst of their people both him and all who follow after him in spiritual prostitution, ¹  to commit prostitution by worshiping Molech. ² 

“‘The person who turns to the spirits of the dead and familiar spirits ²  to commit prostitution by going after them, I will set my face ³  against that person and cut him off from the midst of his people.

For this very reason, ¹  make every effort ²  to add to your faith excellence, ³  to excellence, knowledge;

I myself will set my face ¹  against that man and cut him off from the midst of his people, ²  because he has given some of his children to Molech and thereby defiled my sanctuary and profaned my holy name. ³ 

You will report to Amariah the chief priest in all matters pertaining to the Lord’s law, and to Zebadiah son of Ishmael, the leader of the family of Judah, in all matters pertaining to the king. ¹  The Levites will serve as officials before you. Confidently carry out your duties! ²  May the Lord be with those who do well!”