“But there was no one who offered him a word for Jehu, because he was not afraid of him.” – 2 Kings 9:11
The Character of Jezebel
When we think about Jezebel, we often reflect on her strong personality and her influence in the kingdom of Israel. As Christians, we can learn about the dangers of pride and manipulation through her actions. Jezebel was not only a queen but also a woman who exerted influence over her husband, King Ahab, leading him astray. Her character exemplifies how power can corrupt and lead one away from God’s commands. We are invited to examine our own lives and the influences we allow to guide us. Are we being led by God or by individuals with selfish motives? This serves as a reminder to turn our hearts towards God’s Word and seek wisdom from Him rather than worldly influences.
1 Kings 16:31
“And as if it had been a trivial thing for him to walk in the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, he took as his wife Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians; and he went and served Baal and worshiped him.” – 1 Kings 16:31
1 Kings 18:4
“For when Jezebel massacred the prophets of the Lord, Obadiah had taken a hundred prophets and hidden them, fifty to a cave, and had fed them with bread and water.” – 1 Kings 18:4
2 Kings 9:22
“And when Joram saw Jehu, he said, ‘Is it peace, Jehu?’ And he answered, ‘What peace, as long as the harlotries of your mother Jezebel and her witchcraft are so many?'” – 2 Kings 9:22
Revelation 2:20
“Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophet. By her teaching, she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols.” – Revelation 2:20
1 Kings 21:25
“But there was no one like Ahab who sold himself to do wickedness in the sight of the Lord because Jezebel his wife stirred him up.” – 1 Kings 21:25
The Influence of Jezebel
Jezebel represents the kind of influence that can lead others away from God. It is important for us as Christians to reflect on the type of influences we welcome into our lives and the lives of people around us. Her story exemplifies how easily one can lead others into sin through manipulation and spiritual deception. This teaches us to be vigilant about those we listen to and follow. Together, we must pray for discernment and wisdom to identify good influences that lead us toward God and to recognize and avoid those that pull us away. As we immerse ourselves in Scripture and community, we strengthen our resolve to uphold righteousness and reject harmful influences.
1 Kings 19:1
“And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, also how he had executed all the prophets with the sword.” – 1 Kings 19:1
1 Kings 21:26
“And he did very abominably in following idols, according to all that the Amorites had done, whom the Lord had cast out before the children of Israel.” – 1 Kings 21:26
2 Kings 9:30
“Then Jehu went to Jezreel. And when Jezebel heard of it, she put paint on her eyes and adorned her head and looked through a window.” – 2 Kings 9:30
Revelation 2:21
“And I gave her time to repent of her sexual immorality, and she did not repent.” – Revelation 2:21
2 Kings 9:34
“And when he had gone in, he ate and drank. Then he said, ‘Go, now, see to this cursed woman, and bury her, for she was a king’s daughter.'” – 2 Kings 9:34
The Judgment of Jezebel
Through Jezebel’s story, we can see that there are consequences for leading others astray. God’s judgment is clear, and it serves as a powerful reminder that there is hope for change, but also an impending call to accountability. For us, this means understanding that our actions, even if done in secret, hold significant weight in God’s eyes. The Scriptures encourage us that even though we may face trials, we are called to live righteously and up to God’s standards, knowing that accountability ultimately rests with Him. We have a responsibility to live out our faith genuinely and encourage our friends and family to pursue righteousness as well.
2 Kings 9:36-37
“Therefore they shall not bury her, for she was that kind of woman. So they went in to bury her, but they found no more of her than the skull and the feet and the palms of her hands.” – 2 Kings 9:36-37
Jeremiah 22:19
“He shall be buried with the burial of a donkey, dragged and cast out beyond the gates of Jerusalem.” – Jeremiah 22:19
2 Kings 9:10
“And as for Jezebel, the dogs shall eat Jezebel by the wall of Jezreel.” – 2 Kings 9:10
Isaiah 66:24
“And they shall go forth and look upon the corpses of the men who have transgressed against Me. For their worm does not die, and their fire is not quenched; they shall be an abhorrence to all flesh.” – Isaiah 66:24
Revelation 19:2
“For true and righteous are His judgments, because He has judged the great harlot who corrupted the earth with her fornication; and He has avenged on her the blood of His servants shed by her.” – Revelation 19:2
Lessons for Us
Jezebel’s life teaches us many lessons about the consequences of disobedience, the importance of spiritual discernment, and the need for accountability. We must learn from her mistakes and remember that our actions can influence those around us. It is essential for us to walk in a way that represents Christ’s light and love. We can support one another to remain steadfast in faith and encourage each other toward righteousness. As we nurture our relationships with God and one another, we can build a community that honors Him. This encourages us to continually check our hearts and strive for holiness, allowing God’s word to guide our decisions and actions.
Philippians 1:9
“And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment.” – Philippians 1:9
James 1:22
“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” – James 1:22
Proverbs 4:23
“Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.” – Proverbs 4:23
Galatians 6:7
“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” – Galatians 6:7
1 John 1:9
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9
Seeking God’s Wisdom
As we explore the story of Jezebel, we can find purpose in seeking God’s wisdom in all aspects of our lives. The choices we make can shape our future and the direction of those around us. Remember, wisdom is not found in pride or manipulation, but in humility and obedience to God. We can align our hearts with His desires and grow in our understanding of what it truly means to live out our faith. Together, let us commit to praying for wisdom and guidance as we navigate through life, turning to God’s Word for clarity and strength.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” – James 1:5
Proverbs 1:7
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” – Proverbs 1:7
Proverbs 2:6
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” – Proverbs 2:6
Colossians 1:9
“For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.” – Colossians 1:9
The Legacy of Jezebel
When we remember Jezebel, we must consider the legacy we leave behind. Her life was marked by destruction and deceit, but we have the opportunity to choose a different path. Our choices define our legacies, and we can inspire others to live in truth and righteousness. Together, let us strive for a legacy that honors God and positively impacts others. Whether we are leading our families, engaging with friends, or participating in our communities, we can reflect Christ’s love and light. Thus, we encourage one another to build a foundation of faith that can resonate through generations.
Hebrews 12:1
“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” – Hebrews 12:1
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” – Proverbs 27:17
Malachi 4:6
“And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers, lest I come and strike the earth with a curse.” – Malachi 4:6
Philippians 3:14
“I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:14
1 Timothy 4:12
“Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” – 1 Timothy 4:12
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the life of Jezebel, we see how her choices led to destruction and a legacy of sin. This serves as a powerful reminder for us to be cautious in our choices and the influences we allow into our lives. Through her story, we learn the importance of walking righteously, seeking God’s wisdom, and being accountable to one another. While her example is not one to follow, it pushes us toward a desire to live differently, making choices that align with God’s will.
Each of us has the power to impact others positively. Let us strive to do good and encourage those around us to pursue lives rooted in love and integrity. We have a community where we can support each other, pray together, and grow in faith. Together, let’s create a legacy that honors God and reflects His character.
If you are interested in exploring more encouraging topics, I invite you to look into the impact of corrupt leaders and the nature of sorcery. There is always more to learn and understand as we grow in faith together.