Today’s Readings: 1 Kings 22, 2 Chronicles 18, Matthew 2
14 But Micaiah said, “As surely as the Lord lives, I can tell him only what the Lord tells me.”
We all love to hear what we want to hear. When we have the support from others it can make you walk with some additional confidence or add a chip to the shoulders. Here are some times when this may occur
- idea at work
- plans for spouse or family
- dinner choice
- the way that you may vote for something
- talking about the decision that someone else made
The list can go on and on. In 1 Kings 22, the prophet Micaiah prophesied to King Ahab of Isreal and King Jehoshaphat of Judah, who were preparing for battle against the Syrians. Now, the other prophets told them they were assured victory because these prophets wanted to fit it, not ruffle any feathers, and sustain their current position even if it meant not telling the truth. I think there can be times in our lives when we tell others what they want to hear. When looking for affirmations you go to those that you know will agree with you.
Ahab didn’t want to go to Micaiah because he knew that whatever he said it would be the truth. Ahab says that he only tells him bad things and doesn’t want to hear what he says.
I love reading and hearing the truth daily through His Word. Micaiah was a prophet who told the truth because people would say he genuinely walked with God and did not just say what others wanted to hear. At church yesterday, we discussed those you could list and turn to when needed—those who would give you genuine Godly feedback, wisdom, or clarity when needed. Micaiah would be one of these people.
- Known for walking with God – “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.” Ephesians 5:1 “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16
- Not being afraid of telling the truth without regard for himself– “The Lord detests lying lips, but He delights in men who are truthful” Proverbs 12:22 , “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body” Ephesians 4:25-28
Dear Heavenly Father – Help us always to seek Your truth so that we don’t rely on what we just want to hear. Help us seek Your counsel and provide that truth to others without fear when needed. I thank you, Lord, for this story and the mercy You have shown me when I have taken the wrong course, just like Jehoshaphat. Give me a heart and courage like Micaiah to face the world daily grounded in your truth so I can be the husband, father, friend, leader, son, sibling, and example of You and the truth You have shown us through Your Son Jesus. Amen