1 Kings 21-22 | How The World Sees True Prophets

We love our own way. Because of this self-affinity and pride, we have an aversion to those who point in a different direction, particularly if it becomes personal. Our nation right now has a very sharp division. Without question, those who take a Biblical worldview can expect to be hated and even persecuted for their beliefs.

A TRUE SPOKESMAN FOR GOD

Ahab was the wicked King of Israel. We see his true colors when he wanted to buy a field but the owner would not sell. He and his wife, Jezebel, had him murdered and stole his field. It was a classic case of a wicked king and a wicked queen abusing their power. They believed they were above the law and could take whatever they wanted.

When he and King of Judah wanted to go to war against their mutual enemy, they asked for the prophets. The false prophets who came uniformly prophesied success for Ahab. Then this exchange occurred between the two kings.

But Jehoshaphat said, “Is there not yet a prophet of the Lord here that we may inquire of him?”

The king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, “There is yet one man by whom we may inquire of the Lord, but I hate him, because he does not prophesy good concerning me, but evil. He is Micaiah son of Imlah.” (1 Kings 22:7-8)

Finally, a messenger was sent to get Micaiah to be brought before the kings. The humble messenger pled with Micaiah. It was a plea for political correctness.

Then the messenger who went to summon Micaiah spoke to him saying, “Behold now, the words of the prophets are uniformly favorable to the king. Please let your word be like the word of one of them, and speak favorably.”

But Micaiah said, “As the Lord lives, what the Lord says to me, that I shall speak.” (vs. 13-14)

Micaiah came and spoke the truth (that Ahab would be killed in battle as a judgment from God)… and it turned out exactly as the Prophet said.

TRUST THE TRUTH

God knows what He is doing. That’s why a constant study of His Word and unceasing prayer is necessary. The best we know, we should find out what God says about everything and then follow. Others will not understand. We must be ready for that, but we must be bold in our affirmation of the truth. Everyone is human and can miss the voice of God. But our best hope is to humbly seek God and His truth and then live by “every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” No man has ever gone wrong when this is his habit.

Lord, give me a passion for truth. Save me from myself. Keep me from letting my desires overshadow Yours in my thinking. And, as You direct me, let me walk and proclaim Your truth with unashamed boldness. Those who You are preparing to receive that truth will have ears to hear. Help me to never bow to political correctness just to find favor with men.