June 29, 2017

Insights on Today's Reading

1 Kings 22 - It was clear that Ahab didn't seek God when he wanted to fight against Syria.  He asked King Jehoshaphat from Judah to help him against Syria, but he consulted the prophets of Baal for advice.  At least Jehoshaphat had a heart for the Lord and insisted that a prophet of God be consulted.  Ahab knew there was a prophet, named Micaiah, but Ahab hated him because he always prophesied against Ahab!  Still, Micaiah was called and he ultimately predicted Ahab's downfall and death.  And that's exactly what happened.  The rest of the chapter summarizes Jehoshaphat's life and death and then mentions Ahaziah,  Ahab's son, who became the next king of Israel.

2 Chronicles 18 - This chapter describes the final days of Ahab as he asks Jehoshaphat, King of Judah, to join him against the Syrians.  Though Micaiah, a godly prophet, predicts Ahab's death, he also shows how a lying spirit from God had influenced the false prophets to predict victory, verses 18-22.  God used false prophets to ultimately bring Ahab to a battle that would cost him his life.  But Ahab had already revealed his staunch refusal to recognize God's sovereignty in Israel.  When Ahab and Jehoshaphat entered the battle, Ahab cowardly took off his royal robes to disguise himself while insisting that Jehoshaphat wear his!  God still made sure a "stray" arrow found its mark piercing Ahab's armor and bringing about his death.