It is a great insult to be slapped in the face. It is an insult now and it was during Micaiah’s day. What’s more, to be struck in the face is painful! But Micaiah was attacked in this way. Again, the text says, “But Zedekiah the son of Chenaanah went near, and smote Micaiah on the cheek, and said, Which way went the Spirit of the LORD from me to speak unto thee?” (1 Kings 22:24).

In spite of being hit by Zedekiah, God’s prophet allowed his godly character to control his actions. He would not allow a personal attack to deter him from his duty of speaking God’s message. Neither would he allow himself to retaliate against the one who attacked him for doing his duty.

Though Micaiah did not retaliate, he did rebuke his attacker. The passage continues, “And Micaiah said, Behold, thou shalt see in that day, when thou shalt go into an inner chamber to hide thyself” (1 Kings 22:25). Zedekiah and his fellow false prophets would have no place to hide when the folly of their fabricated falsehoods ended in the defeat of the king and his army. He would know for certain God’s spirit was not with him when he was “repayed” for his wrongdoing. After all, are we not told, “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord” (Romans 12:19)?

As preachers of the Gospel, may we always remember Micaiah’s example. When wronged we must never allow ourselves to be driven from doing our duty. We must not be deceived into thinking we cannot and must not stand our ground regarding the truth. But may we always remember to leave those who would attack us in the hands of God without the threat of retaliation on our part. Lord, give us more preachers like Micaiah!