How does 1 Kings 22:5 emphasize the importance of godly counsel in leadership? Setting the Scene • Ahab, king of Israel, invites Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, to join him in retaking Ramoth-gilead from the Arameans (1 Kings 22:1-4). • Although Ahab is eager for war, Jehoshaphat pauses the momentum and insists on hearing from the Lord before committing troops. • The narrative presents a literal historical event, underscoring how one man’s resolve to seek divine direction can redirect national policy. Verse in Focus “But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, ‘Please inquire first for the word of the LORD.’” (1 Kings 22:5) Key Insights from the Verse • Immediate pause: Jehoshaphat refuses to proceed on human enthusiasm alone. • Priority of revelation: “first” signals that divine counsel must precede military strategy. • Dependence acknowledged: by appealing to “the word of the LORD,” the king admits human limitation and God’s sovereign oversight. • Public model: Jehoshaphat’s request happens in front of Ahab’s courtiers, setting a visible example of Scripture-shaped leadership. Why Godly Counsel Matters for Leaders • Guards against rash decisions—God sees outcomes leaders cannot (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Provides multiple confirmations—prophetic voices test and refine plans (Proverbs 11:14; 15:22). • Aligns authority with accountability—leaders submit to the higher authority of God (Romans 13:1). • Cultivates humility—acknowledging dependence on divine wisdom prevents pride (James 4:6). Supporting Scriptures • 2 Chronicles 20:12: Jehoshaphat again confesses, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You.” • Psalm 1:1-2: Blessing is tied to rejecting ungodly counsel and delighting in God’s law. • James 1:5: God promises wisdom generously to all who ask in faith. • 1 Samuel 23:2; 2 Samuel 5:19: David repeatedly inquired of the Lord before battle, illustrating a consistent leadership pattern. Practical Application • Build decision time around Scripture and prayer before forming strategies. • Surround leadership tables with counselors whose first loyalty is to God’s word. • Weigh every opportunity—political, financial, relational—against the plain teaching of Scripture. • Model dependence publicly, speaking of God’s guidance so others learn to seek Him. • Evaluate counsel by its alignment with God’s character and revealed will; discard advice that contradicts Scripture. Summary 1 Kings 22:5 highlights that truly effective leadership begins with earnest, deliberate pursuit of God’s counsel. Jehoshaphat’s simple, courageous request—“Please inquire first for the word of the LORD”—demonstrates that the safest path for any leader is the one illuminated by divine wisdom. |
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