And the messenger who went to summon Micaiah said to him, “Behold, the words of the prophets with one accord are favorable to the king. Let your word be like the word of one of them, and speak favorably.” But Micaiah said, “As the Lord lives, what the Lord says to me, that I will speak.” 1Kings 22 :13-14
The backdrop to this verse is this- the King was trying to decide if Israel should go to war again with Syria.(Some things never change, right?) His general told him to consult God first. So the king called all of his prophets of the courts- the ones who were paid- and of course they all gave him lip service. But the true prophet of God, Micaiah, would not.
When we are making a huge decision, we need to consult the Lord. But we also need to be prepared to hear the Truth, not just sugar-coated confirmations from well meaning friends. What God has planned for us, He will prepare us for it in the fullness of His time. He will mold us to the task and give us the tools, faith and training we need. But we must do our part in order for that all to happen.
We need to be ready to be molded, which may not be pleasant at times. Some things may need to be reworked in our lives, like habits, comfort zones and thinking only in the box. Yes, God will bring us support, comfort and encouragement along the way when we need it – and it may be through well wishing friends. But a discerning heart always seeks out the Truth.
Jesus said the Truth would set us free. He didn’t say it wouldn’t at times be cold or harsh or not at all what we want to hear. But if you and I really are serious about letting God lead our lives and glorifying Him through it, then we must also have the faith to realize His plans for us are good, even if they are not what we dream they should be. That’s a tough reality- and a bit scary, isn’t it? But we women do not live on hot fudge sundaes alone (though that would be my preference) but on every word that comes out of the mouth of our Lord. No sugar-coated, gooey, sweet talking platitudes can cover up the Truth.
If a friend comes to you for advice- be like the general and be a true friend. Seek out the Lord and be honest in what your hear Him saying. Always speak the Truth, and always peak it in love. If your friend doesn’t wish to hear it, that is between them and God. You have been His mouthpiece and have done your job.
Dearest Lord, let me spend time today listening to Your directions for my life. I need down on my knees time before deciding on a new path. Sending me clear, firm confirmation along with comforting words. Boost my faith but make the answer very clear, and if necessary, frequently as we journey down this road You have set for me to Your glory. Beyond fame, fortune or accolades at the end all I want to hear most is “Well done, good and faithful servant”. And Lord, when others ask for my advice, let me always point them to you. Give me the love and the boldness to speak Your Truth in their lives because that is the only way to honor You and truly serve them. Amen
Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. Ephesians 4:15
