Ignoring God's Word comes with a Price

 Read 1 Kings 16. 

Once the kingdom divided, there was not one good king in the northern kingdom of Israel.  One right after the other, these leaders did evil and led the people in false worship.  Each time this provoked the Lord to anger.  And, each time that leader came to some tragic end. 

With the demise of a king also came the killing of at least all the males in his family who might desire to claim a right to the throne.  Many times total destruction of possessions, property, even cities belonging to the king ensued.  In short, when one person does evil, many other people suffer the consequences. 

When Ahab became king of Israel, he married Jezebel and worshipped the false god Baal.  There is no argument that Jezebel was an awful, sinful woman.  But, concerning Ahab, the scripture states that he "did evil in the sight of the LORD, more than all who were before him" (v.30).  He thought he could do whatever he wanted in total disregard for the God of heaven. 

One of his famous projects was to rebuild the ancient city of Jericho.  In Joshua 6, when the walls of Jericho fell and the Israelites conquered that city, Joshua pronounced a prophecy.  "Cursed before the LORD be the man who rises up and rebuilds this city, Jericho.  'At the cost of his firstborn shall he lay its foundation, and at the cost of his youngest son shall he set up its gates'" (Joshua 6:26).  Though more than 600 years had passed, God's word proved true and Ahab's family experienced these painful consequences. 

God means what He says.  His word is totally reliable.  Neither His word, nor His character, changes with time or culture.  This provides all the confidence we need to live for Him today.  He is worthy of our trust. 

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." (Hebrews 13:8) 

"Forever, O LORD, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens.  Your faithfulness endures to all generations;" (Psalm 119:89-90a)