1 Kings Twenty - Two

There is a lot of things happening in this chapter, though one stood out above the rest. The messenger who went to collect Micaiah instructs him to give a favorable report since all the other prophets were doing the same. However, Micaiah knew that his responsibility and allegiance lied with God and not the opinion of man. Then, in that moment when he had the opportunity to say what was wanting to be heard instead of what was right Micaiah spoke from principle.

Ahab places him in a prison cell to be held until his safe return. Because I don't remember the rest of Micaiah's story at this point it seems that becasue his prophecy came true that he will be in that cell for a long time.

It is easy in life to tell people what they want to hear even if it is not the truth. I believe a large part of the test in character is being able to speak the truth regardless of the circumstance. Especially when the truth comes from God.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Twenty - Two

I couldn't believe what my eyes were reading this monring. Ahab wants a vineyard that isn't his. Naboth says that he is unwilling to give it or sell it to the king because it was part of his inheritance. Ahab goes back to the palace and throws a good ol fashioned hissy fit that would make any two year old proud (I am speaking now from experience). Jezebel (the name just sounds evil) develops what she had to think was the only option. Eliminate Naboth.

Take a step back and realize what happened here.
A man was killed so another man can plant potatoes. Be aware of what is going on in your heart and how your emotions are effecting you. You do not want to sacrifice something menial today for something special tomorrow.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Twenty

And then there was war. What I found most interesting was verse 28. God declares that He is not only the God of the hills but also of the valley. he is stating that there is nothing He is not capable of, a feat which is greater than that of the imaginary gods the Arameans serve.

I love it in scripture when God refocuses people's attention to His majesty. I wonder though, how many times is God revealing His splendor to us but we are too concerned with our own situation to acknowledge it?

God is always at work. We need to open our eyes and our heat to experience His glory.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Nineteen

Elijah following a moment where God reveals Himself with fire from the sky has now hit the road in fear for his life. Over the course of a few days he goes from bold prophet to not wanting to live any longer. It is amazing how a few days of focussing on your challenges can change your perspective.

But God had a greater plan...

As Elijah is wishing for death, he falls asleep, only to be awakened by God's provision. As I read this today I couldn't help but think that when possible rest is necessary to gain perspective. Eventually we find Elijah strengthened and God reveals that He is not done with His prophet. In fact, God directs Elijah to find invest in the life of Elisha and teach him how to pass on this torch.

In the midst of our storms and our fears, it is true that death seems like a tempting option. That is why faith and hope and love is so important.
Our faith gives us persistence to continue on in the journey. Our hope is what gives us a goal to shoot for. Love, as the apostle Paul says in Colossians, is what binds us all together in perfect harmony.


Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Fifteen

It is so easy to get confused with chapters like this. Reading about so many kings as they overlap each other. Keep this in mind. You are reading about to two different kingdoms. Israel is comprised of twelve tribes (or smaller kingdoms). Judah is one of those tribes/kingdom.

The reason we continue to read about who is leading Judah is because of Jesus. The risen King comes from this tribe. What we are reading here is His family tree in Judah and the history of God's people in the other.

Now that that is cleared up,
I hope you have a great day.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Fourteen

I find it disappointing that all that is mentioned with the stewardship of Rehoboam was that he allowed Egypt to take the treasures of the temple. Instead of going after them, it appears that they replaced gold shields for bronze ones. I believe this marked a deeper issue for the nation. Rehoboam was willing to settle instead of being drawn to action.

There are times in life when we should fight for what is precious to us. There is a reason that what matters most should actually matter the most. I would hate that, at the end of my life, the only thing said about me was that I settled for less than the best God was offering me when the world was on attack.

What do you hope is said about you? The best way for that to be said is either record it and play it at your funeral or live it and have others say it.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Thirteen

Though Jeroboam had clear warnings from God about his choices to disobey God's commands, he decided to not heed the advice. Eventually, this will lead to his downfall. I am reminded today that any position of authority we may find ourselves in is always a stewardship.

As we lead others, God is continually challenging us to make good use of our decisions and our time. If you take advantage of people or your situation or forget where your leadership opportunities come from, don't be surprised when you find yourself without the opportunity to lead.

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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1 Kings Twelve

Jeroboam is about to start leading the Israelites as their king. The leaders ask for a lighter yoke to be placed upon them than what Solomon did. Jeroboam seeks counsel from two different groups of people. Those with experience and those without it. Choosing who to take counsel from is an important part of the decision making process.

Here are a few thoughts to consider when seeking counsel:
1) Do you have respect for the one you are seeking counsel from?

2) Have they been where you are attempting to go in regards to the decision?

3) Are they quick to take praise or say, "I told you so?"

4) Does their counsel contradict the Word of God?

5) Do you feel they have your best interest in mind?

Heart and Soul,
BAG
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