2 Kings 9: Stop at the signal!

Verse 21:

Then Jehoram ordered, “Hitch up my chariot.” And when his chariot was hitched up, Joram king of Israel and Ahaziah king of Judah rode out, each in his own chariot, to meet Jehu. They met him at the plot of ground that had belonged to Naboth the Jezreelite.

◇ Jehu, anointed by the disciple of Elisha, rebelled. He led his army towards Joram in Jezreel and met him on Naboth's land. Jehu shot an arrow at the fleeing Joram, who died instantly in his chariot. Joram, the son of Ahab, died in rebellion on Naboth's land. "Naboth's land" symbolizes Ahab's greed and treachery. Was it a coincidence that Jehu and Joram met there?

Ahab's death was a manifestation of God's righteous sovereignty, a judgment according to His plan. Similarly, what may seem like coincidence to humans is the fulfillment of prophecy (verses 7-10) according to God's word.

God is like Jonah confessed, "You are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity." He prefers forgiveness over judgment, revival over destruction, life over death. Therefore, God sent His Son Jesus into the world, allowing Him to shed His blood on the cross, to give everyone a chance. There is no greater proof than this. God gave His Son to lead those on the path of destruction to eternal life.

Ahab was given a chance, but he did not seize it (1 Kings 21:20-29). His descendants also missed their opportunity. When God gave a chance, when He sent a stop signal, they failed to halt. Instead, they continued on a more stubborn and evil path. If they had fully repented and turned back then, this judgment of destruction would not have befallen their descendants.

God is merciful and willing to relent from sending destruction.

♧ God, grant us spiritual eyes to see Your plans and providence correctly! Make us spiritually sensitive to repent and turn back when we need to! Holy Spirit, lead us in truth!