1 Kings 22:10-58
2 Chronicles 18:9 – 20:30
1 Kings 22:16-18, “The king said to him, ‘How many times must I make you swear to tell me nothing but the truth in the name of the Lord?' Then Micaiah answered, ‘I saw all Israel scattered on the hills like sheep without a shepherd, and the Lord said, “These people have no master. Let each one go home in peace.” The king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, ‘Didn't I tell you that he never prophesies anything good about me, but only bad?'”
There are times when reading the Bible seems like watching an action-adventure movie. We know the script, but the malevolent characters seem blind to the fact that their actions won't lead to their demise. Yet, as viewers, we know all along that justice will be served in the end.
Ahab, the Israelite king, who the Bible says, “…did evil in the Lord's sight, even more than any other of the kings before him,” had a propensity for surrounding himself with like-minded people such as his infamous wife, Jezebel. Clearly, his advisers thought it best to agree with him and bring only favorable news. But, as with any good plot, one character, in this case, Micaiah, rebels against evil and speaks truth to power. He warned the king of his imminent demise because he bucked the system of the king's “yes men” he was sentenced to prison, even though the king had literally asked for this news.
The truth of God's Word is like holding a script that tells us the end result of a character's actions. Do we have the courage to speak God's truth in love to others in our lives and warn them of the pitfalls of a destructive path? It isn't always easy, but it is necessary to help one another live out God's best. Be that courageous character in the script of life, and you will be blessed as you walk in step with God on His precious path of purpose.
Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your Word that gives such clear life lessons. Open my heart and eyes to what You have for me and help me to walk in Your light. Guide me to be that courageous person who speaks truth in love even when it won't be received well. In Jesus' name, Amen.