How does 2 Kings 22:12 encourage us to prioritize God's word in decision-making? “Then the king commanded Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Achbor son of Micaiah, Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah the king’s servant, ‘Go and inquire of the LORD for me and for the people and for all Judah concerning the words of this book that has been found…’” What We See in Josiah’s Response - Immediate action: Josiah “commanded”—no delay. - Word-driven next step: Every move flows from “the words of this book.” - Humble submission: The king seeks God’s verdict, placing himself under Scripture’s authority. - Communal concern: Decisions shaped by the Word aim to bless the whole nation. Principles for Our Decision-Making - Start with Scripture, not after other options fail. - Obey promptly; delayed obedience weakens conviction (James 1:22-25). - Treat the Bible as final authority over rank, role, or preference (Psalm 19:7-11). - Surround yourself with counselors who honor the Word (Proverbs 15:22). Practical Ways to Prioritize the Word - Open the Bible before the calendar when planning. - Post key verses where choices are made—desk, dashboard, phone lock screen. - Ask of every opportunity: “Does this align with God’s revealed will?” - Memorize guidance passages—Proverbs 3:5-6, Psalm 119:105—for instant recall. - Share decisions with an accountability partner committed to Scripture. Supporting Scriptures - Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” - Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” - Isaiah 66:2: “…to him who is humble and contrite in spirit, and who trembles at My word.” - James 1:22: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” Key Takeaway Josiah’s instinctive turn to the newly discovered Book of the Law models a life where every decision—personal and communal—is filtered through, shaped by, and submitted to God’s Word. |
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