How should believers discern God's will when forming partnerships, as seen in this passage? Setting the Stage “Then Ahab king of Israel asked Jehoshaphat king of Judah, ‘Will you go with me to Ramoth-gilead?’ And he replied, ‘I am as you are, and my people as your people; we will join you in the war.’ ” (2 Chronicles 18:3) Jehoshaphat answered quickly, yet the wider chapter shows how costly this alliance became. From his experience we can glean timeless guidance for discerning God’s will whenever we consider a partnership—business, ministry, or personal. The Hidden Danger of Impulsive Agreements • Jehoshaphat’s first response sounded noble, but it ignored spiritual reality. • Ahab consistently practiced idolatry (1 Kings 16:30–33), bringing judgment on Israel. • Forming a bond with someone who opposes God placed Jehoshaphat and his nation in harm’s way (2 Chronicles 19:2). Principle 1: Test Every Partnership by God’s Word • “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership can righteousness have with wickedness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14) • Scripture is not a suggestion but a clear boundary: believers must weigh every potential alliance against revealed truth. • If the other party rejects or twists God’s standards, unity in purpose will be impossible in the long run. Principle 2: Seek God’s Counsel before Commitments • Jehoshaphat eventually said, “Please inquire first for the word of the LORD” (2 Chronicles 18:4). The timing matters—asking after you’ve said “yes” sets you up to rationalize disobedience. • Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us to acknowledge Him in all our ways; only then will He direct our paths. • James 1:5 promises wisdom to any who ask in faith. Pause, pray, and listen before contracts are signed or hands are shaken. Principle 3: Evaluate Character and Spiritual Alignment • Ahab surrounded himself with 400 flattering prophets; only Micaiah spoke truth (18:6–13). • Psalm 1:1 warns against walking in the counsel of the wicked. Who influences your prospective partner? • Look for evidence of humility, integrity, and reverence for God (Matthew 7:16-20). Principle 4: Submit to Godly Counsel • Jehoshaphat had access to faithful voices but still rode into battle beside Ahab. • “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). • Invite mature believers to scrutinize the opportunity; welcome their caution as protection, not interference. Principle 5: Watch for God’s Warnings and Red Flags • Micaiah’s prophecy (18:16-22) plainly foretold disaster. Ahab ignored it, Jehoshaphat minimized it. • Today, warnings may surface through Scripture, a sermon, inner conviction, or circumstances that repeatedly block progress. • Never override a clear check in your spirit just to keep momentum. How This Applies Today • Business ventures: shared values matter more than shared profits. • Ministry collaborations: alignment on doctrine and mission is non-negotiable (Amos 3:3). • Marriage and dating: spiritual unity is foundational, not optional (1 Corinthians 7:39). • Friendships and causes: influence flows both directions; choose companions who spur you toward Christlikeness (Proverbs 13:20). Summary Checklist for Discerning God’s Will • Compare the proposed partnership with explicit scriptural commands. • Pray and wait until you receive peace confirmed by God’s Word. • Examine the other party’s character, testimony, and influences. • Seek input from trusted, godly advisers and heed their cautions. • Pay attention to consistent warnings—never suppress them. Following these steps keeps believers from repeating Jehoshaphat’s costly mistake and positions us to walk confidently in God’s will, forming partnerships that honor Him and advance His purposes. |
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