How can we discern God's will when forming alliances, as David did? Setting the Scene with David 1 Chronicles 12:16-18 describes men from Benjamin and Judah arriving at David’s stronghold. Their spokesman, Amasai, declares, “We are yours, O David! … Peace, peace to you, and peace to your helpers, for your God helps you.” Scripture adds, “Then David received them and made them leaders.” David does not accept allies casually; he discerns God’s will first. His pattern offers us a roadmap. Principle 1: Seek Spirit-led Confirmation • The text explicitly states, “The Spirit came upon Amasai” (v. 18). • Genuine alliances carry a clear, Spirit-borne witness. • Supporting verses – John 16:13: the Spirit “will guide you into all truth.” – Acts 13:2: the Spirit directs Paul and Barnabas to partner. • Practically: Pause, pray, and wait for that inner confirmation that aligns with Scripture, not mere emotion. Principle 2: Check Alignment with God’s Covenant Purposes • David’s mission is to establish the kingdom promised in 2 Samuel 7. Those joining him declare loyalty to that God-given purpose. • Amos 3:3: “Can two walk together unless they are agreed?” • 2 Corinthians 6:14 warns against being “unequally yoked.” • Ask: Does this partnership advance God’s revealed goals, or divert me from them? Principle 3: Examine Character and Loyalty • The newcomers pledge, “Peace to you … for your God helps you.” Their words show humility toward God, not self-interest. • Look for: – Proven faithfulness (Luke 16:10) – God-centered motives (Philippians 2:20-21) – Observable fruit (Matthew 7:16) Principle 4: Test and Verify • David “received them” only after their Spirit-filled confession. He effectively “tested the spirits” (1 John 4:1). • 1 Thessalonians 5:21: “Test all things; hold fast what is good.” • Gather counsel (Proverbs 15:22) and measure the alliance against clear biblical teaching. Principle 5: Keep Dependence on the Lord, Not the Alliance • Psalm 20:7: “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” • Alliances are tools, never substitutes for reliance on God. David’s victories continue to be attributed to the LORD, not merely to added manpower (1 Chronicles 14:10-11). Putting It into Practice Today • Pray for the Spirit’s unmistakable confirmation. • Compare the prospective alliance with God’s revealed purposes in Scripture. • Investigate the other party’s character, testimony, and fruit. • Seek wise, godly counsel and test every detail against the Word. • Enter the partnership only when dependence remains firmly on God, not on human strength. Follow David’s pattern, and alliances become avenues for God’s help rather than hindrances to His will. |
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