Connect 1 Kings 14:5 with another instance of God revealing future events. Texts in Focus “And the LORD said to Ahijah, ‘Behold, the wife of Jeroboam is coming to ask you about her son, for he is sick. You are to say such and such to her; when she arrives, she will disguise herself.’” “Now the LORD had revealed to Samuel the previous day, ‘At this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin. Anoint him ruler over My people Israel; he will save them from the hand of the Philistines.’” Shared Pattern: God Foretells Specific Encounters • God speaks before the visitors appear. • Details are explicit—who is coming, when, and why. • The prophets are equipped with God’s words in advance, ensuring they respond faithfully. Divine Purposes on Display • Protection of His covenant people – Jeroboam’s idolatry threatened the nation; God exposes it through a prophet (1 Kings 14:7–10). – Saul’s anointing answered Israel’s cry for a king (1 Samuel 9:16; 10:1). • Authentication of the prophetic office – Foreknowledge proves the message is from the LORD (Deuteronomy 18:22). • Mercy mixed with judgment – Jeroboam’s house receives both a warning and a prophecy of downfall. – Saul receives honor but also a charge to obey (1 Samuel 10:8). What These Moments Reveal about God • Omniscience—nothing surprises Him (Psalm 139:1–4). • Initiative—He seeks out His people first (Romans 5:8). • Sovereign timing—appointments occur “tomorrow” or “when she arrives,” never late (Isaiah 46:9–10). Take-Home Encouragements • Expectant listening: the same God still speaks through Scripture; stay tuned to His voice (Hebrews 1:1–2). • Courageous obedience: Ahijah and Samuel deliver hard truths; we can trust God with the results (James 1:22). • Confidence in Providence: every detail of our lives is already known to Him (Matthew 10:29–31). |
    |