Grace Even for the Worst

Ahab and Jezebel had sunk to levels like we never see in the kings of Judah (and the kings of Judah sank pretty low too). They were selfish, greedy and willing to go to any lengths to get what they wanted. Judah was not always faithful to the Lord, but at least they usually respected Him. Ahab openly names the Lord’s prophet his enemy, he was consciously opposed to God.

The brutality of this passage was the everyday reality of the ancient world. The judgement on Ahab and Jezebel is awful, but it is fair; they receive upon themselves exactly what they brought into the world. What stands out in stark contrast to all of the other horrors in these stories we read of in Kings is the compassion and mercy that God shows even to the vilest of people when they turn to Him.

All it took for Ahab to receive God’s mercy was to humble himself and God was then willing to extend his grace to him. It may seem unfair that his son Ahaziah, inherited his punishment. Yet Ahaziah would have the same opportunity to humble himself before God, but he would choose not to.

Jesus on the other hand, had nothing to repent of. Yet He willingly chose to take on the punishment of all of us, for all who turn to Him. No one is too far gone, no one has fallen out of reach. No one deserves a second chance, but grace is extended to everyone.

Thought Point

Is there anyone in your life who you have given up on? How can you be extending God’s grace to them?

Prayer Point

Pray for those in your life who have not yet invited Jesus into their lives. Ask God to give you the wisdom to know how to reach them for Him.