In this daily Bible reading is the account of Ahab, King of Israel, wanting to purchase a vineyard from Naboth the Jezreelite. However, Naboth refused Ahab. Ahab was downtrodden.
Ahab’s evil wife, Jezebel, then had Naboth killed so Ahab could get the vineyard. God sent a Prophet to Ahab to tell Ahab that he would be severely punished for this sin. Ahab then repented in sackcloth and ashes.
Because Ahab repented, God said that He would delay Ahab’s punishment and impose it on Ahab’s son after Ahab died. It appears that God saw something favorable in Ahab. However, Ahab was influenced by his wife, Jezebel, to do evil.
Jezebel worshipped demons, and she influenced Ahab to lead Israel away from God and worship demons. Ahab’s good side had led him to offer Naboth money and/or another vineyard for Naboth’s vineyard. Ahab did not harm Naboth when Naboth refused him. Ahab simply pouted. However, Ahab allowed Jezebel to have Naboth murdered.
Ahab seemed inclined to do right, but he didn’t stand firm in doing right. We should not let ourselves be led away from doing the right thing or choosing the right path, even by loved ones. We should not be weak willed in doing what is right. Rather, we should be strong and determined.