And the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, “There is yet one man by whom we may inquire of the Lord, Micaiah the son of Imlah, but I hate him, for he never prophesies good concerning me, but evil.” – 1 Kings 22:8
Anyone who has been a parent to a teenager or a preteen knows the eye roll. It’s what you receive when you say something that your child believes is stupid or that they object to in any way. It’s the non-verbal equivalent of responding to your eloquent words of wisdom with a dismissive, “Whatever!” It’s infuriating.
The prophet Micaiah must have felt like he was getting the eye roll from King Ahab of Israel. Ahab had joined forces with Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, to battle against Syria. But first, Jehoshaphat suggested they “inquire of the Lord” to see whether or not this plan of action was God’s will.
400 so-called prophets of God prophesied great success for Ahab, but Jehoshaphat asked if there was anyone else. Ahab responded with the above verse.
At first, when Micaiah was brought before the kings, he told them what they wanted to hear. But when pressed, he told the truth. King Ahab would die in battle and Israel would suffer defeat.
For telling this truth, Micaiah was thrown in jail and fed only bread and water until the battle was over. Israel lost and Ahab was killed, just as Micaiah had predicted.
When no one believes in you, it’s hard to believe in yourself. Read on, my friends, and you will hear good news. When no one else believes in you, Jesus believes and Jesus restores.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you that you believe in me. You support me, you encourage me, and you love me. Thank you for your love.
Contributed by Pastor Steve Moser
Bible Reading
Read 1 Kings 22:1-28 and record any insights you gain here.
Call to Connection
Reflect on the people who have truly believed in you. Take some time today to remind a friend/family member that you believe in them.