I don't know if we can overemphasize the value of contrition
in the eyes of God. Psalm 34:18 says, "The
LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saves such as be of a
contrite spirit." And, that obviously included Ahab. Even Ahab
received mercy from God when he humbled himself in repentance. But, let's not
get ahead of ourselves.
Among his many faults, Ahab had a problem with covetousness.
More simply, he coveted his neighbor's vineyard. Wanting it and being willing
to buy it may have been harmless enough (I Kings 21:2), but when his neighbor Naboth
refused to sell it, the wicked heart of Ahab was revealed. He couldn't take
"no" for an answer. And, if Ahab's sinful heart was manifested, how much
more was his evil wife's debauchery revealed?
She had Naboth killed so that Ahab could have the vineyard which he
desired.
Now, while Ahab was walking through his newly acquired
vineyard, God sent Elijah to preach a sermon of rebuke and condemnation to him.
The most amazing thing here is the quick swing of Ahab's attitude from a smug
and victorious villain calling Elijah his enemy to a remorseful penitent in
sackcloth. Did it work? Yes, this man who had allowed his evil wife to
instigate unprecedented sin in Israel was shown mercy from the Almighty. Why?
Because of his sincere fear and repentance (I Kings 21:29).
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