In 1886, Atlanta Pharmacist John Pemberton invented an unusual concoction in a three-legged kettle in his backyard. This new drink was called Coca-Cola because the original formula containeda mixture of traces of Cocaine and kola nuts. First offered to the public at Jacob's Pharmacy on May 8, 1886, Coke (as the drink came to be called) became one of the most popular soft drinks in the United States by 1900. Today, Coke, is the standard by which all other soft drinks are measured. Dubbed the "Real Thing" in 1969, there is no substitute for an ice cold bottle of Coca-Cola. Today, there are dozens of spin-off colas, most of which taste nothing like the satisfying taste of coke...cheap imitations of the "Real Thing."
In this passage, Ahab king of Israel and Jehosaphat King of Judah make an alliance to attack the King of Aram over a region of land called Ramoth Gilead. Johosaphat agrees to attack one condition: that they ask God what He thinks of their plan.
Ahab gathers around 400 prophets who serve false Gods. They are afraid of the king so they simply tell him what he wants to hear. Johoshaphat asks if there were any prophets of the LORD left in Israel..any real prophets to ask. Ahab states it plainly...
"There is still one prophet through whom we can inquire of the Lord, but I hate him because he never prophesies anything good about me, but always bad. He is Micaiah son of Imlah." 1 Kings 22:8 NIV
Amazingly, the King of Israel would rather listen to flattering lies from cheap imitations of men of God than to listen to a true prophet of the one true God. Not surprisingly, ignoring the words of the true prophet of God ultimately cost Ahab his life.
In our world, there are many cheap substitutes for the real important things in life, especially when it comes to the truth about God and His word. It is always easier to settle for the things that will make us feel good, but only the real truth of God can truly satisfy our souls.
Why do you think people settle for cheap imitations for the most important things in life?
What have you substituted for something real in your life? What would it take for you to commit to the real things of life?
Prayer Emphasis: Dear Jesus, You are truly the real thing in a world of falsehood. Help me commit to living by Your word each and every day. In Jesus' name, amen.
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