1 Kings 21:17-18 Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah the Tishbite: “Go down to meet Ahab king of Israel….He is now in Naboth’s vineyard, where he has gone to take possession of it.”
This chapter reads like an episode of Royalty Behaving Badly. Ahab and Jezebel both act despicably. So when I got to the end of the chapter and saw that the Lord granted Ahab mercy and compassion because of his repentance, I was disappointed that he didn’t get what I felt he deserved—punishment. And then I immediately felt ashamed of my own reaction. What kind of hypocrite am I that I want mercy and compassion for myself but judgement for everyone else? Jesus, Help me!
1 Kings 21:19 “Say to him, ‘This is what the LORD says: Have you not murdered a man and seized his property?…This is what the LORD says: In the place where dogs licked up Naboth’s blood, dogs will lick up your blood—yes, yours!’”
God is very clear about His desires. He wants all of us with Him in Heaven. He will leave the 99 to go after the one who has strayed every time. And at one time or another, we are all that one, so I am beyond thankful that He pursues us so relentlessly.
1 Kings 21:27 When Ahab heard these words, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and fasted. He lay in sackcloth and went around meekly.
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture. Thank You for humbling me by reminding me that mercy and compassion always come before punishment if it means turning hearts toward You. Help me to be compassionate and merciful to all I encounter today. Draw me closer. Amen.
1 Kings 21:28-29 Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah the Tishbite: “Have you noticed how Ahab has humbled himself before Me? Because he had humbled himself, I will not bring this disaster in his day, but I will bring it on his house in the days of his son.”
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.