April 19 -- "Faulty Source of Wisdom"

 Today's Reading: 2 Kings 1

"Faulty Source of Wisdom"

Today's incident reminds us of the danger of seeking help from the wrong source. Here, we find King Ahaziah of Israel in a rather unfortunate situation. He falls ill and sends messengers to consult Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron, for guidance on his recovery. However, before they reach their destination, the angel of the LORD intercepts Elijah and instructs him to confront the messengers. The angel challenges their choice to seek help from a false god when there is a true and living God in Israel.

The angel's question in 2 Kings 1:3 is not necessarily intended to be sarcastic. The tone of the question seems more like a rebuke or a rhetorical challenge to the messengers of King Ahaziah. The angel is highlighting the irony and folly of seeking help from a false god when there is the one true God in Israel available and ready to hear. The question is meant to emphasize the absurdity of their actions.

This incident reminds us of the danger of seeking help from the wrong source. King Ahaziah's decision reflects a common human tendency to turn to worldly solutions instead of seeking God's guidance. In our own lives, we may be tempted to rely on worldly wisdom, self-help books, or the latest trends to find answers to our problems. But the lesson from 2 Kings 1:3 is clear: God alone is the source of true wisdom and guidance and He finds it absurd that we would seek wisdom from any other source.

Let us be cautious about where we seek help and guidance. Instead of chasing after empty promises and trendy solutions, let's turn to the one true God. He is always available, ready to listen, and faithful to guide us through life's challenges. Don't exchange the truth for a counterfeit! We have the privilege of having a personal relationship with the God who created the universe. So why settle for less?

You know, seeking help from the wrong source is a bit like trying to put out a forest fire with a water pistol. It may look like you're doing something, but the results are going to be less than satisfactory. In fact, you might end up with wet shoes and a whole lot of frustration. So, let's save our feet and our sanity by going straight to the source of all wisdom and power – our loving Heavenly Father.