Payday Someday

"But someone drew his bow at random and hit the king of Israel between the sections of his armor." 
1 Kings 22:34 (NIV)

Have you ever tried to cheat fate?

One of the greatest preachers in Southern Baptist history, Dr. R.G. Lee, preached a famous sermon called "Payday Someday" based on the story of Ahab found in today’s chapter. It became one of the most influential sermons ever delivered, highlighting a simple but profound truth: we may try to escape the consequences of our actions, but ultimately, justice will find us. As Dr. Lee would say, "God does not pay at the end of every day, but in the end, He pays."

King Ahab tries to escape God’s justice. After Elijah's prophecy that Ahab would die an untimely death, he likely thought he’d escaped after three years had passed without incident. 

What happens next shows how futile it is to run from divine justice. Today’s verse says, "Someone drew his bow at random and hit the king of Israel between the sections of his armor" (1 Kings 22:34). A random arrow—not even aimed specifically at him—finds the tiny gap in Ahab’s armor and delivers the fatal blow, fulfilling Elijah's prophecy perfectly.

This principle applies to all of us: Justice may seem slow, but it is certain. The wheels of God's justice may grind slowly, but they grind exceedingly fine. Hebrews 9:27 reminds us that "people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment." 

We live in times much like Elijah's—when evil and injustice seem to triumph. It's easy to become discouraged, thinking the days are exceedingly dark and justice is being left behind. 

For the follower of Christ, this truth brings you both comfort and challenge. Comfort because you know you can entrust all injustice to the perfect Judge. Challenge because you’re called to live righteously, knowing you too will give an account.

Today, rest in the assurance that through Christ's sacrifice on the cross and His resurrection, justice has been ultimately secured. Every wrong will be made right. Every tear will be wiped away. Every injustice will be addressed.

You can face each day with confidence, not because justice is always immediate, but because it is inevitable. God's Word never returns void, and His judgments are perfect.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for being a God of perfect justice. When evil seems to triumph, remind me that Your justice may be delayed, but never denied. Help me to live righteously, knowing that someday every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. In His mighty name I pray, Amen.