Day 164 - The Influence of Kings (1 Kings 20-22, 2 Chronicles 18:1-8 ) - Year 2
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TODAY'S READING:

- 1 Kings 20:23-43, 1 Kings 21, 1 Kings 22:1-9, 2 Chronicles 18:1-8 

WORD OF THE DAY:

-  Influence

Springtime marked the season for kings to go to war, and this time was no exception. King Ben-Hadad of Aram prepared his army, while Israel, though small in number, was assured victory by God. In one day, Israel killed 100,000 Aramean soldiers. Ben-Hadad, fearing for his life, begged King Ahab for mercy, offering to return some of Israel's land. Ahab agreed, making a treaty with him. However, a prophet warned Ahab that sparing Ben-Hadad would bring about his own death and the downfall of his people. Ahab returned to Samaria angry and sullen.

Ahab coveted Naboth’s vineyard, but Naboth refused to sell it. Jezebel, Ahab’s wife, took matters into her own hands. She falsely accused Naboth of cursing God and the king, resulting in his death. God sent Elijah to confront Ahab, declaring severe judgment on Ahab and his family for their evil deeds. Despite his wickedness, Ahab humbled himself before God, donning sackcloth and fasting. Because of his humility, God delayed the disaster until after Ahab’s death.

For three years, there was peace between Aram and Israel. King Jehoshaphat of Judah visited King Ahab of Israel, and Ahab proposed an alliance to fight Ramoth Gilead. Jehoshaphat agreed but insisted on seeking God's counsel first. Ahab’s prophets predicted success, but Jehoshaphat asked for a prophet of the Lord. Ahab reluctantly summoned Micaiah, whom he disliked for his unfavorable prophecies. Tomorrow, we will hear what Micaiah has to say.

Word of the Day: Influence

Definition: The capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.

Ahab was a weak-willed king heavily influenced by his wicked wife, Jezebel. Her influence led to Naboth’s murder and furthered Israel’s sin. Despite his evil actions, Ahab’s humility before God temporarily softened God's judgment.

Scriptural Insight:

- 1 Kings 21:25: "There was never anyone like Ahab, who sold himself to do evil in the eyes of the Lord, urged on by Jezebel his wife."

- Henry Blackaby: "How you live your life is a testimony of what you believe about God."

Ahab’s story highlights the importance of who we allow to influence us. In today’s world, social media influencers shape our perceptions and behaviors. We must be cautious about who we follow and let God’s Word be our primary guide.

We all have the power to influence others, whether through kindness, encouragement, or our actions. Even small acts of goodness can leave a significant impact on those around us.

Encouragement for Today:

- Proverbs 27:17: "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."

- Romans 12:2: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

Let us strive to be a positive influence, reflecting God's love and truth in our daily lives.

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