He had been duly warned by God through Neco that engaging in this battle would be his ruin.

Nevertheless, Josiah did not turn away from him, but disguised himself in order to fight with him. He did not listen to the words of Neco from the mouth of God, but came to fight in the plain of Megiddo. And the archers shot King Josiah. (2 Chronicles 35:22-23a)

You can’t write it off to the impetuousness of youth. He’s not some wet behind the ears kid. He’s old enough to have a twenty-three-year-old son. And he’s a royal rock star. He’s led the greatest revival in the history of the kings of Judah.

But, he did not listen. The humble king who once was broken when he heard the Word of the Law read, on this day arrogantly disregards a direct message from God. And the archers found their mark.

How will you end your time on earth? Past spiritual success does not guarantee a grand finale. Pride lurks for the old as well as the young.