How can we ensure our actions align with God's will, unlike Jehoram's? Jehoram’s Example: A Warning 2 Chronicles 21:6 sets the tone: “Jehoram walked in the ways of the kings of Israel, as the house of Ahab had done, for Ahab’s daughter was his wife. And he did evil in the sight of the LORD.” He ignored his godly heritage, yoked himself to an ungodly influence, and patterned his reign after apostate Israel. His story shows what happens when a life drifts from God’s will. Principles for Aligning Our Actions with God’s Will • Root life in God’s Word – Psalm 119:9-11: “How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to Your word… I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” – Regular, prayerful reading and memorizing of Scripture gives the Spirit material to guide thoughts, choices, and desires. • Guard relationships and influences – 2 Corinthians 6:14: “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Bad company corrupts good character.” – Jehoram’s marriage to Ahab’s daughter introduced idolatry into Judah; deliberate fellowship with those who love the Lord strengthens obedience, while unwise alliances pull hearts away. • Seek God’s guidance daily – Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Consistent time in prayer and humble dependence on the Lord invites His direction in every decision. • Choose obedience over convenience – James 1:22: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” – Romans 12:1-2 calls believers to live as “living sacrifices… not conformed to this world.” Obedience often costs something—but it yields lasting peace and God’s approval. • Cultivate humility and repentance – Micah 6:8: “Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” – Jehoram hardened his heart even when Elijah’s letter warned of judgment (2 Chronicles 21:12-15). Quick repentance keeps fellowship with God clear and prevents small sins from becoming patterns. Practical Steps for Today 1. Schedule unhurried Scripture intake each day—read, reflect, and note one truth to apply. 2. Evaluate the voices shaping thoughts (media, friendships, mentors) and adjust anything that dulls appetite for God. 3. Start every task—work, study, family—with a brief expression of dependence on the Lord, trusting Him to direct. 4. Act immediately on the next clear command in Scripture; delay weakens resolve. 5. End the day with honest confession, thanking God for victories and turning from any revealed sin. Living the Difference Psalm 1:1-3 pictures the blessed person “like a tree planted by streams of water… whose leaf does not wither.” That vibrant stability is the opposite of Jehoram’s tragic decline. By anchoring to God’s Word, guarding influences, and practicing daily obedience, lives can consistently align with God’s will—bearing fruit that endures for His glory. |
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