“At that time Abijah the son of Jeroboam fell sick. And Jeroboam said to his wife, ‘Arise, and disguise yourself, that it not be known that you are the wife of Jeroboam, and go to Shiloh. Behold, Ahijah the prophet is there, who said of me that I should be king over this people’” (1 Kings 14:1–2 ESV).
Jeroboam’s son was sick, and he was desperate. Though Jeroboam had turned the nation away from God by setting up false worship and idols, he still believed in the power of the true prophet, Ahijah. Yet, instead of humbling himself and going in person, he sent his wife in disguise. His actions reveal a conflicted heart. He acknowledged God’s power, but he would not bow to God’s authority. He wanted a favorable word from God without admitting his sin and showing repentance.
We see ourselves in Jeroboam more than we might like to admit. How often do we want God’s help in crisis, but forget to honor Him when times are good? We may pray when our children are sick, our finances tight, or our hearts heavy, but do we submit to His authority when things are well? Are we asking God for guidance without giving Him our obedience? Jeroboam’s story reminds us that acknowledgment without surrender is not true faith. God sees through our outward disguises. What He desires is a heart that trusts and obeys. Let us not be people who seek God’s help while clinging to our idols. Instead, let us return to Him with repentant hearts, recognizing that His blessing and His authority go hand in hand.
PRAYER: Dear Father, forgive us for only thinking to turn to You when we are in trouble or desperate. We often want Your help without truly yielding our hearts. You are the sovereign God who sees all and knows all. Give us repentant hearts that truly turn to You, not just in crisis, but in every moment. We want to seek You not just for what You can do, but because of who You are. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.