Influence & Repentance
BRD REFLECTIONS:
1 Kings 21:1-29 and Psalm 91 (NIV)
( Teo Kheng Hwa, SGM Core Team Member)
READ:
1 Kings 21:1-29 (NLT)
OBSERVE:
In this chapter, King Ahab wanted to buy a vineyard from Naboth (a commoner) but was rejected by Naboth because the vineyard was an inheritance that was passed down by Naboth’s ancestors. King Ahab went home angry and sullen (v1-4).
King Ahab allowed himself to be under the bad influence of his wife, Jezebel, who did many evil deeds including plotting the death of Naboth (v8-14). He was also led astray to worship idols instead of Yahweh (v25-26).
But when Elijah brought God’s judgement on King Ahab (v17-19), King Ahab was quick to repent (v27).
The Lord relented and forgave King Ahab (v29).
APPLY:
From this passage I have learnt 3 lessons:
Surround myself with godly people. It is important to surround myself with godly people so that I will not stray from the commandments of the Lord and live a godly life. I must be careful with the friends and colleagues I keep. Are their influences drawing me closer to or away from God?
Do a self-check regularly. what kind of a leader am I? King Ahab was not content with what he had, but coveted Naboth’s vineyard. He became angry and sullen when he did not have his way. This teaches me that a leader can be immature and childish, especially when hedoes not keep his eyes on the Lord.
Repentance. Like King Ahab who repented after Elijah brought judgement from the Lord, I need to confess and seek God’s forgiveness when the Holy Spirit or godly friends rebuke me for wrong behavior. The Lord is faithful and just, and will forgive my sin.
DO:
I will keep my eyes on the Lord by seeking Him daily and asking the Holy Spirit to reveal any hidden and unknown sins, so that I can repent.
I will be mindful of the influences of my friends and colleagues. I will pray for God’s wisdom in managing these relationships, so that I may influence others in godly ways.
PRAY:
Father God, thank You for reminding me that leaders are vulnerable to spiritual immaturity, and can easily fall prey to sin. Holy Spirit, guard my eyes, heart, and mind so that I will be able to keep my eyes on my Lord and King. May my life be used to point people around me to Jesus. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
