The final tapes from the Nixon White House were released by the National Archives last month, and they reveal a President with a blind spot similar to the one of King Ahab, the subject of today’s scripture. The tapes include once-secret Oval Office recordings of conversations between Nixon and his aides. Time after time, Nixon surrogates are heard reassuring the President that the Watergate scandal will pass. Of course, it didn’t pass at all – Nixon was soon forced to resign.

I saw the Lord sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing beside him on his right hand and on his left.

I Kings 22:19

King Ahab, likewise, surrounded himself with “yes” men. But there was one prophet, Micaiah, who was willing to give it to him straight…even though the truth was unpleasant. Micaiah told the king that the Lord and the “host of heaven” beside Him had forecast disaster for Ahab.

Are you willing to speak the truth in love to others? As you come beside America’s leaders today in prayer and seek ways to influence them, remember that while tact, timing and diplomacy are important qualities, the truth must never be surrendered. When you ask boldly, God will give you the wisdom and courage to say what must be said!

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 4:17-25