1 Kings Chapter 22: Verses 5-8 (NLT)
Then Jehoshaphat added, “But first let’s find out what the Lord says.”
So, the king of Israel summoned the prophets, about 400 of them, and asked them, “Should I go to war against Ramoth-gilead, or should I hold back?” They all replied, “Yes, go right ahead! The Lord will give the king victory.”But Jehoshaphat asked, “Is there not also a prophet of the Lord here? We should ask him the same question.” The king of Israel replied to Jehoshaphat, “There is one more man who could consult the Lord for us, but I hate him. He never prophesies anything but trouble for me! His name is Micaiah son of Imlah.” Jehoshaphat replied, “That’s not the way a king should talk! Let’s hear what he has to say.”
2 Timothy Chapter 4: Verses 3-4 (NLT)
For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths.
There is a major difference between Ahab and Jehoshaphat. Jehoshaphat recognised that Ahab’s “prophets” were not telling the truth. He wanted to hear what God had to say, even if it was difficult to hear. On the other hand, Ahab only wanted to hear good news that suited his plans.
When God uses a trusted person to give us advice, it might not be what we want to hear. Are we like Ahab – prone to go in the huff or complain if the advice doesn’t suit us? That’s what Paul meant in his letter to Timothy. Or are we like Jehoshaphat – willing to accept the truth, whether we like it or not?
Would we rather have a sincere friend who will tell us the truth, or would we rather have insincere flattery?
Jehoshaphat rebuked Ahab for his behaviour. As Christians, perhaps when we feel like Ahab we should give ourselves a talking to – “That’s not the way for a Christian to behave.”
Dear Lord,
Help me to be willing to listen to the truth, even if it’s not what I want to hear. Thank You for those who You have sent to cross my path to guide and direct my ways, and for their faithfulness in telling the truth. May I always do likewise, I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.