2.2 KiB
+++ title = "2 Chronicles 18:28–34" date = "2025-02-10" +++
Read the passage.
Despite the warning from Micaiah, Ahab and Jehoshaphat continue the plan to go take Ramoth-gilead back from the Syrians. On the face of it, it seems like they should have known better, but remember that the Lord had decreed that Ahab would be defeated, so it must happen this way. What I really don't understand is how Jehoshapaht agrees to Ahab's battle plan. "I'm going incognito; you make yourself a great big target." This obviously sounds good from Ahab's perspective, but it doesn't seem to make sense for Jehoshaphat in particular or for the battle as a whole. It does indicate that Ahab is concerned about the prophecy he received, and he's trying to do something to prevent it from happening.
Nevertheless, that is how the battle goes, and Ahab's plan "works": the Syrian chariots have orders to fight only the king of Israel, and because they only see one man in kingly robes, they target him. With the pressure on, Jehoshaphat realizes that he is in trouble, and he cries out to God to save him. The Lord is gracious to the king of Judah, because the Syrians realize he is not Ahab and turn away to look for him. Before they can find him, a Syrian archer happens to hit Ahab with an arrow, giving him a fatal wound.
It takes what is probably several hours for Ahab to die. While he lives, he is propped up in his chariot so that his army can see that their king lives. In 1 Kings 22 we are told that the armies of Israel and Judah break and flee at sunset when Ahab dies, fulfilling the prophecy that Micaiah had made.
Many applications can be drawn from this historical event. Be wary of allying with those who do not love the Lord, your God. Seek counsel from the Lord before you make your plans. The Lord protects and rescues those who trust in Him. What He has said will happen, He will see accomplished. Jehoshaphat seems to have made some foolish choices here, but the Lord was merciful and preserved his life through them and their consequences.
Give us wisdom and strength to follow Your ways.