I Kings 21:1-16

“The Lord forbid that I should give the inheritance of my fathers” (v3).  Naboth was a landowner who possessed a vineyard near King Ahab’s palace (v1).  Ahab wanted to buy the vineyard, but Naboth refused, citing the Mosaic Law which commanded that land should stay within families and tribes as part of the covenant between God and Israel.  Naboth’s refusal cost him his life.  Queen Jezebel persuaded men to falsely accuse Naboth, and he was executed.  Ahab then possessed the vineyard.

“The Lord forbid …” (v3).  Naboth was more concerned about God’s rule over his life than Ahab’s rule.  Obedience to God may cost us in this life, but our great reward is eternal.