1 Kings 21:25
25 There was none who sold himself to do what was evil in the sight of the LORD like Ahab, whom Jezebel his wife incited.
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All the kings of the northern tribes adopted Jeroboam’s idolatry practices. Even after prophets predicted that their idolatry would bring their home to ruin, they would persist. In the meantime, King Asa, David’s great-great-grandson, revived his father’s faith in Juda. During his long reign, usurpers assassinated one monarch after another in the North. Though one of the worst, God chose to reorient Judah’s hearts toward Him under Ahab’s rule.
God even granted Ahab many notable triumphs against far more formidable opponents. But Jezebel, Ahab’s Sidonian wife, inspired him to do evil. He had seen God send down fire, just as Elijah had. He had witnessed the fulfillment of Elijah’s prophecy. Still, he let his wicked wife have a bigger impact than God.
Ahab repented in sackcloth and fasted, something none of the northern kings had done under similar circumstances when Elijah foretold God’s punishment upon him, Jezebel, and their entire family. This worst ruler had a believing heart. Bad influences had prevented him from acting in accordance with what his heart knew was right.
