United again, we see the kings of Israel and Judah coming together for a common goal. The king of Israel needed some help in recapturing a town and asked the king of Judah to help. Jehoshaphat was happy to assist, but before he fully committed, I liked how he said, “But first let’s find out what the LORD says.”
That should be our “knee-jerk reaction” as well when facing a new task or undertaking. How often do we stop and take time to ask God? If we ask, do we wait for a response or just push forward? God’s timing isn’t always the same as ours. We hope for a quick and clear response. It doesn’t always happen that way.
Even for these kings, the messages they received were contradictory. There was more to the LORD’s plan than either king imagined. When we get mixed signals, how do we know who to believe? In our story, at least, it comes down to who do you trust?
I feel a little bit sorry for Micaiah, son of Imlah. He probably just sacrificed his life without even trying. He simply was serving God and gave the message he received from the LORD. A prophet’s life can be hard because the message is often difficult to share. God uses his prophets to get our attention.
Micaiah was even told what to say by King Ahab’s messenger. There were already 400 prophets (presumably prophets of Baal) agreeing on what should happen. Did the messenger think he was going to help Micaiah “look good” if he was in agreement, or did he have evil motives? Micaiah saw through the whole charade when he said, “As surely as the LORD lives, I will say only what the LORD tells me to say.”
Didn’t you just want to stand up and applaud for Micaiah? If we could all be so bold and not worry about what everyone thinks about what we do! When we are clearly following God’s lead, we shouldn’t fear the approval or disapproval of others. We know that it’s God’s opinion that matters!
Do you have something going on in your life right now that you are unsure about? Maybe it’s a big decision involving a job, a relocation, or something else that will change your life immensely. What do you feel God is telling you to do? Have you asked him?
Sometimes we ask once and think that’s all there is. If the king of Judah had done that, he wouldn’t have gotten the whole story. Is that an indication we are welcome to ask God frequently about the direction he has for our lives? If we do, he’ll know that we are truly seeking his will, and, as far as I know, that’s a good thing!
Let’s pray …
Lord, I know I’ve asked you before, but I truly want to live a life that is pleasing to you. I look forward to each new moment with you. I want you to be leading my way in this life. Guide my steps, open my mouth at the right time, and use me to share your love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
