What other biblical instances show leaders seeking God's approval for decisions? The benchmark: Hezekiah’s example in 2 Chronicles 30:4 • “The proposal seemed right both to the king and to all the assembly.” • Hezekiah aligned the Passover timing with Numbers 9:11, showing submission to God’s written will. Moses: bringing each new situation to the LORD • Numbers 27:5 — “So Moses brought their case before the LORD.” Inheritance decision solved. • Numbers 9:8-9 — waiting for God’s word on the delayed Passover; the ruling later blessed Hezekiah’s generation. Joshua: inquiring after failure • Joshua 7:6-7 — fell before the ark after defeat at Ai; God exposed Achan’s sin. • Joshua 8:1 — fresh guidance led to victory. • Joshua 9:14 — contrast: leaders deceived when “they did not seek the counsel of the LORD.” David: making inquiry a lifestyle • 1 Samuel 23:2, 4; 30:8; 2 Samuel 5:19, 23 — repeated “David inquired of the LORD,” receiving tailored battle plans and rescue strategies. Solomon: seeking wisdom before reigning • 1 Kings 3:9-12 — asked for “an understanding heart”; God granted wisdom and added blessings. Jehoshaphat: demanding prophetic confirmation • 2 Chronicles 18:4 — “First seek the counsel of the LORD”; refused joint battle without it. Hezekiah: more than one consultation • 2 Kings 19:14-19 — spread Sennacherib’s letter before God; Isaiah delivered the saving answer. Nehemiah: praying before planning • Nehemiah 1:4-11 — fasted, confessed, claimed covenant promises. • Nehemiah 2:4-5 — quick prayer before petitioning Artaxerxes. Ezra: fasting for protection • Ezra 8:21-23 — corporate fast secured safe passage without soldiers. The early church: guided by prayer and the Spirit • Acts 1:24-26 — prayed, then chose Matthias. • Acts 13:2-3 — worship, fasting, Spirit’s directive to send Barnabas and Saul. • Acts 15:28 — “It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us” framed council’s ruling. The supreme model: Jesus in communion with the Father • Luke 6:12-13 — all-night prayer preceded choosing the twelve, setting the ultimate example. Putting it together Scripture presents an unbroken pattern: leaders pause, pray, and wait for God’s voice before acting. Success follows obedience; neglect invites trouble. The record confirms Proverbs 3:6: “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” |
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