How should Christians balance reliance on human alliances and faith in God? Setting the Scene: Asa’s Strategic Treaty 1 Kings 15:19: “Let there be a treaty between me and you, between my father and your father. See, I have sent you a gift of silver and gold. Now go, break your treaty with Baasha king of Israel so that he will withdraw from me.” • Asa of Judah faces aggression from Baasha of Israel. • Instead of seeking the Lord first, Asa buys help from Ben-hadad of Aram. • The plan “works” politically (vv. 20-21), yet Scripture later exposes the spiritual cost. When Alliances Replace Faith 2 Chronicles 16:7-9 supplies God’s commentary on Asa’s choice: • v. 7 – “Because you relied on the king of Aram and not on the LORD…” • v. 9 – “For the eyes of the LORD roam to and fro over all the earth to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him.” Lesson: success achieved apart from faith still displeases God and invites discipline (2 Chron 16:12-13). God’s Desire for Dependence Scripture consistently calls believers to rely on Him before any human resource: • Psalm 20:7 – “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” • Isaiah 31:1 – “Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help… but do not look to the Holy One of Israel.” • Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” Biblical Balance: Use Means, Trust God Human alliances are not inherently wrong; motives and priorities matter. • Nehemiah sought the king’s letters (Nehemiah 2:7-8) yet prayed first (Nehemiah 1:4-11). • Paul accepted a military escort (Acts 23:23-24) yet confessed, “Our sufficiency is from God” (2 Corinthians 3:5). Guideline: 1. Seek God’s counsel (James 1:5). 2. Evaluate the alliance—does it honor or hinder obedience (2 Corinthians 6:14)? 3. Keep dependence anchored in God, not in the partner or the plan (Psalm 127:1). Practical Takeaways for Today • Before signing a contract, entering a partnership, or leaning on expert advice, pause for prayerful reliance on the Lord. • Measure alliances by Scripture: do they encourage holiness, truth, and witness? • Hold earthly supports lightly; hold God’s promises tightly. • Celebrate victories as God’s provision, not human ingenuity, guarding the heart from pride (Deuteronomy 8:17-18). |
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