No One Gets Away With It

"Have you not murdered a man and seized his property?... In the place where dogs licked up Naboth's blood, dogs will lick up your blood—yes, yours!" 
1 Kings 21:19 (NIV)

Have you ever watched someone do something terrible and seemingly get away with it?

In 1 Kings 21, we find one of the most outrageous injustices in Scripture. King Ahab wants the vineyard of a man named Naboth, but he refuses to sell, saying, "The LORD forbid that I should give you the inheritance of my ancestors." This isn't stubbornness; Naboth is honoring God's law that prohibited Israelites from permanently selling their family property.

When Ahab couldn't get his way, his wife Jezebel orchestrated false charges against Naboth, leading to his execution. With Naboth dead, Ahab simply strolls in and takes possession of the vineyard. It appears justice has been flouted completely.

But there is always a witness. God sees everything. He sends the prophet Elijah to confront Ahab with these powerful words: "Have you not murdered a man and seized his property?" God keeps perfect records of every detail.

There's a little Ahab in all of us—coveting what belongs to others, allowing greed to overshadow what’s right. How often have you thought you’ve gotten away with something because no one saw you? Maybe it’s the spiteful words under your breath at your spouse, avoiding the tithe, or frustration at a service representative on the phone. 

Remember, God sees everything. Nothing escapes His notice. Hebrews 4:13 says, "Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account." (NIV)

Today, examine your life for areas where you might be acting like Ahab—taking what isn't yours, speaking what isn't true, or living as if no one is watching. Then remember that God is the perfect witness and perfect judge. His justice may be delayed, but it will never be denied.

The good news is that through Christ, you can receive mercy instead of judgment when you repent. Just as Ahab's punishment was postponed when he humbled himself, God extends grace to you when you turn from your sin. 

Prayer: Father, thank You for seeing everything and ensuring that justice will ultimately prevail. Forgive me for the times I've acted as if no one was watching. Help me to live with integrity, knowing that You see all things and will hold all accountable. In Jesus' Name, Amen.