Today’s Reading

1 Kings 21-22; John 3:1-21

Selected Verses

There was none who sold himself to do what was evil in the sight of the Lord like Ahab, whom Jezebel his wife incited. He acted very abominably in going after idols, as the Amorites had done, whom the Lord cast out before the people of Israel. I Kings 21:25-26

Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3:3

Reflections

Those who do evil avoid the light. They are not concerned about entering the Kingdom of God. They run from God, rather than seek Him.

Ahab exemplified a man who “sold himself to do what was evil in the sight of the Lord.” On a whim, he ordered Naboth executed on trumped up charges because he had property that Ahab wanted. He worshiped idols. He was completely self-centered. Whenever he didn’t get his way he was “vexed and sullen.” His conniving wife, the evil Jezebel, urged him on. Ahab’s death came by God’s providence even though he had disguised himself in battle. As prophesied, the dogs licked up his blood in the vineyard he had taken from Naboth.

Jesus gave the Pharisee Nicodemus a stern warning. No one can see the kingdom of God without being born again, being born of the Spirit. Yet, Jesus goes on to say, it is not as if there are people who are desperately seeking to enter the kingdom and cannot find a way. The fact is that people love darkness, not light, because their deeds are evil. They hate the light. If they did what was true they would come to the light.

Ahab sought the darkness. All those who are not born of the Spirit seek the darkness. None of them are concerned about entering the kingdom of God.

Think about it

How about you? Have you been born again? If so, you will do what is true. You will flee the darkness and come to the light. You will love the light not the darkness. If you are not sure, but are concerned about making sure that is a good sign the rebirth has taken place or is taking place in you. Pray for God to do His work of bringing new spiritual birth to your soul. I’ll see you in His kingdom.

© 2017 John A Carroll Used by permission