June 29 - 1 Kings 22; 2 Chronicles 18: Ahab Receives His Punishment

Today’s Reading: 1 Kings 22; 2 Chronicles 18

The Message

English Standard Version

Congratulations! You have finished 1 Kings! That makes 16 books.

Thought to Guide Your Reading

God protects the righteous king. He punishes the evil king.

Summary in 100 Words or Less

Jehoshaphat and Ahab enjoyed peace. Ahab asked Jehoshaphat to help attack Aram. Jehoshaphat wanted God's approve first. Ahab's prophets approved. Jehoshaphat asked for another prophet. Ahab warned, "Micaiah's just a wet blanket."
Micaiah told Ahab that God wanted to send Ahab to his death. He sent Ahab's prophets to encourage him to attack Aram. Ahab locked Micaiah away.
During the battle, God protected Jehoshaphat when he called out for protection. Ahab, in disguise, died in his chariot by a random arrow. Israel's army scattered. Dogs licked up Ahab's blood.
Ahaziah, Israel's next king, outdid his father's wickedness.

How Today’s Reading Contributes to the Gospel: God is Setting All Things Right

Ahab did not like Micaiah because he only spoke what God told him to speak.

Reading Ahab's description of Micaiah I cannot help but chuckle, "As a matter of fact, there is still one such man. But I hate him. He never preaches anything good to me, only doom, doom, doom - Micaiah son of Imlah" (1 Kings 22:8; 2 Chronicles 18:7, The Message). Leaders will only love you if you tell them what they want to hear. Do not be afraid to be disliked for speaking God's word—in love.

God sent prophets to send Ahab to his death.

This is a difficult text, especially after yesterday's reading. Apparently, Ahab did not keep his repentant heart. God allowed an angel to lead his prophets to lie to Ahab so that he would attack Ramoth Gilead to his death. Why would God do such a thing? God will have justice, especially to those who are in power.

Who do you not like listening to because they do not agree with you?

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