1 Kings 20 & 21: Subtle and Blatant Evil

I've been stuck on these passages for a few days, waiting for inspiration in writing.  This morning, I realize the short of it; King Ahab and Queen Jezebel were evil.



1 Kings 21:25
Amplified Bible (AMP)

25 For there was no one who sold himself to do evil in the sight of the Lord as did Ahab, incited by his wife Jezebel.

Anyone who got in the way of these two idolaters was eliminated.  Naboth, neighbor of Ahab, had a vineyard that Ahab coveted, but Naboth would not sell his family's inheritance.  Like a spoiled child, Ahab sulked and refused food, because he couldn't get what he wanted.  Jezebel sprang into action, commanding two men to falsely accuse poor Naboth of renouncing God.  Isn't that ironic?  Naboth was stoned, and Ahab seized the vineyard.

It makes me wonder what kinds of evil today attempt to steal our inheritance?  This evil may not be as blatant as what was described in the book of 1 Kings, but subtle evil can be even more dangerous.

It is extremely important to continually submit to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to search our hearts and reveal any areas where subtle evil has infiltrated.  Jesus blood cleanses any defilement, and Holy Spirit ministers and empowers us to remain pure.

The ray of hope in these chapters is seen in 1 Kings 21:27-29.

When Ahab heard those words of Elijah, he tore his clothes, put sackcloth on his flesh, fasted, lay in sackcloth, and went quietly.

And the word of the Lord came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying,

Do you see how Ahab humbles himself before Me? Because he humbles himself before Me, I will not bring the evil in his lifetime, but in his son’s day I will bring the evil upon his house.

No sin is too black for the blood of Jesus to wash whiter than snow!  No mistake too great for Jesus to redeem!

Holy Spirit, search us to the very depth of our beings.  If there is any wicked way in us reveal it and wash us in the the blood of Jesus.  Empower us to walk worthy of the name of Christ!  In Jesus' name, AMEN!!!