The life of Manasseh as presented in chapter thirty-three is a powerful demonstration of the grace of God. As we follow the life of Manasseh through this chapter, God teaches us how He bestows His grace upon humanity.
Manasseh begins his life and ministry as king in total defiance and opposition to God. Manasseh worships false gods, sets up altars to them, leads the people in the worship of these gods, and even goes to the lengths of placing an idol in the temple of God. This is an unspeakable act of arrogance and sin. God's judgment fell upon Manasseh and the people of Judah in the arrival of the Assyrian hordes which carried Manasseh away captive to Babylon.
While under the judgment of God, Manasseh repents, and God shows him great grace. Verses twelve and thirteen describe the humbling of this king by the judgment of God. The result is God showing great grace and lifting His judgment from Manasseh. This is a beautiful illustration of the fact that it is not sin but pride and an unrepentant heart that places us beyond the reach of God's grace.
Manasseh also illustrates the work of grace in the heart of the recipient of God's grace. Grace effects a change in Manasseh's practices as he turns from idolatry and seeks to stamp it out in his kingdom. True repentance always issues in a changed life that is visible to all.
Daily Devotional- Luke 10:25-37 The Good Samaritan
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