Bible Chapter: I Kings 21 & 22

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    There are two verses that are amazing.  They have to rate as some of the saddest words that can be said about anyone.  And, as some of the saddest words in the Bible.  21:25 - 26: “25 (There was never a man like Ahab, who sold himself to do evil in the eyes of the LORD, urged on by Jezebel his wife. 26 He behaved in the vilest manner by going after idols, like the Amorites the LORD drove out before Israel.)” Here we have a succinct description of two evil people who had positions of great influence and completely abused their influence.  They did all they could to pull God’s people away from serving Him.  They thought they could do anything they wanted and that nothing would happen to them.  They both ended up with an ignoble demise.  Jezebel’s name is synonymous with wickedness, treachery and spiritual seduction.  What a sad way to be remembered.  It is no complement to call someone a Jezebel.
    Ahab had gathered around him “prophets” who would tell him whatever he wanted.  There was also a true prophet of God who told Ahab the truth.  Ahab said that he hated him because he never prophesied anything good about him.  It is obvious that this wicked king was missing the point.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    All the details of this wicked royal couple reveal how wickedness can take over.  People in power can become so jaded to truth and righteousness that they think they are the ones in control.  They think that God’s standards don’t apply to them.   This can happen in political and spiritual leaders.  The deceiver convinces them they are above the rest and can do anything they want.  The long term results are disastrous.  The Bible tells us to seek God’s righteousness.  That is the only way to the best in life.  There are no exceptions.

3.  How can I help someone?
    I am observing that our culture is saturated with people who think they can declare anything as acceptable and that no one had better try to stop them.  The mentality has become that the majority rules and is always right.  That is not so.  God is right, even if everyone else disagrees with Him.  So, learn what God has revealed and apply it.