Division: A Study in 1 KingsSample

What does it say?

Ahab and Jehoshaphat sent for the prophet Micaiah after 400 prophets claimed victory in an attack against Ramoth Gilead. Micaiah then prophesied Ahab’s death in battle.

What does it mean?

Ahab, Jehoshaphat, and Micaiah had different approaches to the situation before them. Ahab’s previous humility was replaced with arrogant avoidance of God’s prophet and His Word. The environment he created was designed solely to please himself, regardless of reality. Jehoshaphat, Judah’s godly king, entered a political alliance that resulted in peace but at the cost of spiritual compromise (2 Chronicles 21:1-6). He was discerning enough to realize the 400 prophets weren’t speaking the truth, but he stopped short of going home when impending disaster was prophesied against his alliance. Micaiah, however, was determined to speak the truth and do the right thing, even though he was the only one.

How should I respond?

Crisis situations and major life decisions tend to unveil our character. They act as a mirror, reflecting the good while simultaneously showing us what needs correction. This passage reveals three different crisis responses: rejecting truth, spiritual compromise, and unwavering conviction. Which example best describes how you handled the last major event in your life? Hiding from reality and compromising our beliefs breed disaster eventually, if not immediately. Are you prepared to take a stand for truth, even if it means standing alone? What part of your character reflection needs correction?