Scripture Reading: 2 Chronicles 34:22-33

Huldah, a woman in the Old Testament, lived “in Jerusalem in the Second Quarter” (2 Kings 22:14), which was considered the “university” quarter. Some have suggested that she was a teacher by profession. She was married to Shallum, who was the uncle of the prophet Jeremiah. Like Jeremiah, Huldah was a prophet, meaning she could communicate God’s will to the people.

The backstory for Huldah’s work is a recurring one in the Bible. The Hebrew people often forgot God and engaged in the religious practices of neighboring countries. God sent prophets to call the people back to Him, but the people repeatedly returned to idolatry.

After a series of evil kings, Josiah came to power. Unlike Israel’s leaders before him, he “did what was right in the sight of the Lord” (2 Kings 22:2). While Josiah was working to restore God’s temple, his workers stumbled upon an ancient manuscript, “the book of the law.” He immediately sent for a prophet who could explain the text.

The capital city of Jerusalem did not lack prophets at the time. Both Zephaniah (Zeph. 1:1) and Jeremiah (Jer. 1:1–2) prophesied during Josiah’s reign. But God led the leaders of the nation to ask Huldah, a woman, to do the important job of interpreting the Scripture for the king. Huldah boldly told these leaders what they needed to hear. In response, Josiah renewed the nation’s covenant with God, and the people “did not turn away from the Lord” during Josiah’s reign.

Gifts vary greatly from person to person, but whatever gifts God gave you, use them boldly as Huldah did. Do not shy away from speaking up, leading, or using your gifts in your workplace.

Prayer: Lord, help me recognize my gifts and embrace new opportunities. Guide me to the work you have for me. Amen.

Author: Theology of Work Project

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