What can we learn about seeking God's guidance before making decisions? The verse at a glance “ When Rehoboam arrived in Jerusalem, he mobilized the whole house of Judah and the tribe of Benjamin—180,000 choice warriors—to fight against the house of Israel and restore the kingdom to Rehoboam son of Solomon.” (1 Kings 12:21) What was happening • Rehoboam had just watched ten tribes break away under Jeroboam. • Hurt pride and political panic drove him to assemble an enormous army. • Only afterward (vv. 22-24) did God send Shemaiah with a stop-order: “Do not fight… this situation is from Me.” • Rehoboam nearly marched into a civil war that God never authorized. Key lessons on seeking God first • Strong emotions push us toward quick fixes; God calls us to stillness before strategy. • Size of resources (180,000 elite troops) never substitutes for the Lord’s approval. • God’s plans can include circumstances we dislike (“this situation is from Me”). • Obedience after the fact is good; obedience before acting is better. Scriptural echoes • David: “Therefore David inquired of the LORD…” (1 Samuel 23:2) and won a clear victory. • Joshua’s leaders with the Gibeonites “did not seek counsel from the LORD” (Joshua 9:14) and ended in a binding treaty. • Jehoshaphat: “Jehoshaphat resolved to seek the LORD” (2 Chronicles 20:3-17) and watched God fight the battle. • Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to “acknowledge Him… and He will make your paths straight.” • James 1:5 promises wisdom to all who ask. Practical steps for today 1. Pause—refuse to let urgency make the decision for you. 2. Pray—ask specifically for direction, not just blessing on your plan. 3. Ponder Scripture—allow God’s Word to shape your options and motives. 4. Pay attention—look for godly counsel or a providential “stop-order.” 5. Proceed—or postpone—only when the Lord’s peace aligns with His Word. Living it out The story of Rehoboam reminds us that even well-resourced, sensible plans can collide with God’s higher purpose. Slowing down long enough to seek His counsel turns potential disaster into directed steps, keeps relationships intact, and showcases His sovereignty over every decision we face. |
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