1 Kings 21
-This chapter is a very interesting and telling account of
the life of Ahab, king of Israel. The historical account of the king’s taking
of Naboth’s life over a vineyard that he wanted is described in vivid detail.
It is Jezebel who takes a leading and deceptive role in securing this property
in a totally evil manner (1 Kings 21:1-16). We notice the ruthless nature of
this wicked queen in usurping even the authority of her husband to do this act.
Ahab goes along with it, and the elders and nobles of Israel also acted
cowardly in the face of decision as to whether they should do the right thing
and resist the royal command or capitulate and do evil. Ahab is shown as a
pouting cry baby in this episode when he can’t get his way. He was not content
with what he had and what God had ordained through His laws of inheritance in
the land.
-Because of this vile iniquity, recompense was on the way,
and the LORD sent His prophet Elijah the Tishbite once again into the king’s
presence with a word. Death was proclaimed on him and his royal line along with
a debilitating end in dishonoring death for his queen, Jezebel (1 Kings 21:17-24).
“Surely there was no one like Ahab who sold himself to do evil in the sight of
the LORD, because Jezebel his wife incited him. He acted very abominably in
following idols… (1 Kings 21:25-26a)”
-However, something strange happens as Ahab hears these
words from the prophet. In repentance, “he tore his clothes and put on sackcloth
and fasted, and he lay about in sackcloth and went about despondently (1 Kings
21:27).” God shows His ultimate compassion toward the humbled king and relents
by taking pity on his life. The curse will come at a later time upon his
children (1 Kings 21:28-29, 2 Kings 9:25-37).”
-*Application* Contentment becomes a huge theme of
consideration for us as we read this passage. God wants us to be happy with
what we have and not covet our neighbors possessions (Exodus 20:17). We run
into problems when we want more than what God desires for our lives.
“Better is the little of
the righteous than the abundance of many wicked (Psalm 37:16).”
“Better is a little with
the fear of the LORD, than great treasure and turmoil with it. Better is a dish
of vegetables where love is, than a fattened ox and hatred with it (Proverbs 15:16-17).”
“Better is a little with
righteousness than great income with injustice (Proverbs 16:8).”
Also, we should see the mighty compassion of our
God even when we fail mightily. Remember that you can always turn to the LORD
with a humble and contrite heart and He will not turn you away. If He can
forgive Ahab, He can certainly forgive us. Praise the LORD for His everlasting love!!!
Verse to Memorize: 1
Kings 21:25
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