ODJ: priceless
October 17, 2010
“The Lord forbid that I should give you the inheritance that was passed down by my ancestors” (vv.2-3).
READ: 1 Kings 21:1-19
Michael Forbes has lived on the Aberdeenshire dunes in Scotland for 41 years. His rustic buildings never bothered his neighbors, but they’re an eyesore to Donald Trump, who is building a luxury hotel and golf course nearby. Trump offered Forbes free golf and above market value for his 23 acres, but Forbes replied that he wouldn’t leave for any amount of money. He told ABC News, “The place is not for sale. It’s never been for sale. And they can’t understand that. They think there’s a price on everybody. There’s not a price on me.”
God bless Michael Forbes. He reminds us that some things are priceless, simply because there is no way to estimate their worth. This was Naboth’s point to King Ahab (1 Kings 21:3). In essence, he said, “I would love to trade up, but how can I betray the Lord and sell the vineyard which he gave to my family?”
King Ahab cried to Queen Jezebel who executed Naboth on false charges and gave his vineyard to the king. But God had the last word. He sent Elijah to tell Ahab that dogs would lick his blood “at the very place where they licked the blood of Naboth!” (v.19).
Although some situations may end badly for us, we need to be like Naboth. What about us is not for sale? Will we trade our integrity for money, sex for a relationship, or the confidence of our friend to win the approval of another?
We must never be an Ahab—the one who pressures others to sell. Avoid sentences that begin with, “If you love me, you will . . .” “If you’re my friend, you will . . .” and “Can’t we make an exception just this once?”
Know what is priceless—never to be sold. —Mike Wittmer
What if it’s too late, and you have already compromised your integrity or the conscience of someone else? What will you do to receive forgiveness and make things right?
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