Heed God’s Warnings
BRD REFLECTIONS:
1 Kings 22:1-53 and Psalm 92 (NIV)
( Serene Chia, SGM Core Team)
READ:
I read 1 Kings 22:1-53. The verses that spoke to me were:
- V8: The king of Israel answered Jehoshaphat, “There is still one prophet through whom we can inquire of the Lord, but I hate him because he never prophesies anything good about me, but always bad. He is Micaiah son of Imlah.”
- V28: Micaiah declared, “If you ever return safely, the Lord has not spoken through me.” Then he added, “Mark my words, all you people!”
- V34: But someone drew his bow at random and hit the king of Israel between the sections of his armour.
OBSERVE:
King Ahab of Israel knew that Micaiah was the only prophet left who would speak God’s truth—a truth he didn’t want to hear because it contradicted his desires and intentions. Though he disguised himself in battle to avoid the fate Micaiah had prophesied, he could not escape God’s will and was struck down by a randomly shot arrow, fulfilling the prophecy.
APPLY:
Reflecting on this passage, I admire Micaiah’s courage to speak God’s truth to King Ahab. Sometimes, I may choose not to speak up as I fear the repercussions. I also see myself in King Ahab, acting pridefully and ignoring wise advice from loved ones, because I think I know better. This story reminds me that ignoring hard truths can lead to my downfall.
DO:
I will remind myself to:
- Stand firm and speak the truth, even when it’s difficult.
- Be receptive to honest feedback.
- Surrender my plans to God, recognizing that His will prevails.
PRAY:
Dear God, thank You for always being there for me, guiding me through Your Word and through the people you have placed in my life. Please forgive my pride and give me the humility to accept the advice of others. Help me to speak the truth in love and to be humble and obedient to Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.