How can we ensure our decisions align with God's will, avoiding Jehoram's mistakes? The danger of self–exaltation: Jehoram’s tragic turn – 2 Chronicles 21:4 records that Jehoram “strengthened himself and put to the sword all his brothers”. – He clung to power rather than to God, violating both family covenant and divine command. – Scripture presents his story as literal history and a cautionary mirror for every believer. Drift-check #1: Fear the Lord above all – “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). – When reverence fades, self becomes king. – Daily awe of God steadies motives, curbs rash ambition, and invites His counsel. Drift-check #2: Guard covenant relationships – Jehoram broke brotherhood; the Law calls that blood-guilt (Genesis 9:5-6). – New-covenant believers are urged, “Be kind… forgiving one another” (Ephesians 4:32). – Protection of marriage, family, and church unity keeps decisions on God’s tracks. Drift-check #3: Seek godly counsel, reject worldly alliances – “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). – Jehoram followed Athaliah’s Baal-loving relatives (2 Chronicles 21:6). – Wise choices are weighed with seasoned believers, Scripture, and the Spirit’s inner witness. Drift-check #4: Guard the heart, watch the drift – “Guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Proverbs 4:23). – Jehoram’s violence began long before the swords unsheathed; it germinated in unchecked pride. Drift-check #5: Walk in humble dependence – “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). – Humility keeps our ears tuned to God and our hands open to correction. Practical alignment checklist • Start every decision by worshiping—realign the heart before you weigh the options. • Search Scripture for direct commands or guiding principles. • Invite input from mature believers who love Christ and love you. • Examine motives: Will this choice exalt Jesus or merely advance self? • Assess relational impact—does it build or break covenant commitments? • Wait for inner peace from the Spirit; impatience often signals flesh at the wheel. • “Seek first the kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:33); if it hinders kingdom priorities, table it. • Move forward in faith, then keep listening; course-correct quickly when Scripture or counsel flags a concern. Living the lesson Jehoram teaches that unchecked pride, discarded counsel, and broken covenant open the door to ruin. By cultivating godly fear, honoring relationships, seeking counsel, guarding the heart, and walking humbly, we align our choices with God’s revealed will and steer clear of Jehoram’s destructive path. |
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