Text: 1 Kings 20:1-43
Yahweh graciously spoke through a prophet to the wicked King of Israel, Ahab, promising him victory against the attacking Syrian army. Twice Israel was victorious, but in the second time Ahab spared the life of the Syrian King, Ben- Hadad. We might think it is a kind and merciful thing to do. That’s what God does for us, gives us mercy. But Yahweh had commanded that the Syrian King be destroyed (v.42) . Ahab disobeyed, and the enemy king lived.
The Kingdom of God and of His Christ is in constant warfare, spiritual warfare (Eph.6:12), with the enemy king, Satan. And from the beginning, he (Satan) has hated God and God’s people. Because he cannot harm God, he works to destroy God’s people. The day is coming when the evil one himself will be destroyed by God’s judgment. Mercy will not be granted to him. However, do not forget, you and I should have been condemned with him. But King Jesus was gracious to us. Thanks be to God.
Meditate on verse 23. What is God teaching you in this verse?
Merciful Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, I worship You because You are the gracious God of all creation. You are the Lord of heaven and earth. Amen.