24:5 The Levites took their time carrying out the king’s order, even though he told them not to delay. Offerings for keeping the Temple in order were not just the king’s wish, but God’s command (Exodus 30:11-16). The Levites, therefore, were not only disregarding the king but disregarding God. When it comes to following God’s commands, a slow response may be little better than disobedience. Obey God willingly and immediately.
24:10 Evidently the Levites weren’t convinced that the people would want to contribute to the rebuilding of the Temple (24:5), but the people were glad to give of what they had for this project. Don’t underestimate people’s desire to be faithful to God. When challenged to do God’s work, they will often respond willingly and generously.
24:18 If everything went so well in Judah when the people worshiped God, why did they turn away from him? Prosperity can be both a blessing and a curse. While it can be a sign of God’s blessing to those who follow him, it carries with it the potential for moral and spiritual decline. Prosperous people are tempted to become self-sufficient and proud—to take God for granted. In our prosperity, we must not forget that God is the source of our blessings. See Deuteronomy 6:10-12; 8:11-14.
24:18-20 When King Joash and the nation of Judah abandoned God, God sent Zechariah to call them to repentance. Before dispensing judgment and punishment, God gave them another chance. In the same way, God does not abandon us or lash out in revenge when we sin. Instead, he aggressively pursues us through his Word, his Spirit in us, the words of others, and sometimes discipline. He does not intend to destroy us but to urge us to return to him. When you are moving away from God, remember that he is pursuing you. Stop and listen. Allow him to point out your sin so you can repent and follow him again.
24:19 God sent many prophets to Joash and the people to warn them that they were headed for destruction. Joel may have been one of these prophets. Read the book of Joel for more information about the political and spiritual climate of the times.
24:22 Zechariah asked God to call the people to account for their sins. He was not seeking revenge but pleading for justice. When we feel like despairing over the wickedness around us, we can rest assured that in the end, God will bring complete justice to the earth.