How can we apply Jehoshaphat's example of seeking God's guidance today? Setting the Scene 1 Kings 22:5 records a pivotal pause in real history: “But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, ‘Please inquire first for the word of the LORD.’” Before marching into battle, the king of Judah insisted on hearing from God. His reflex to seek divine counsel, rather than rushing ahead, provides a timeless blueprint for every believer. What Jehoshaphat Did Right • Paused before acting • Placed God’s word above political pressure • Sought more than one prophetic voice (22:6–8) • Waited for clarity instead of settling for convenience • Aligned his decision with revealed truth, not majority opinion Why This Matters • God speaks clearly and authoritatively through Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16–17). • He promises to guide those who ask (Psalm 32:8; James 1:5). • Ignoring His counsel invites costly consequences, as Ahab discovered (1 Kings 22:34–38). Translating the Example into Our Daily Lives 1. Pause and Pray • Resist the impulse to make snap decisions. • “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5–6) 2. Open the Word First • Daily Bible reading supplies the primary channel of guidance. • “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) 3. Gather God-Honoring Counsel • Jehoshaphat listened to multiple prophets; we can consult mature believers who ground their advice in Scripture. • “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22) 4. Test Every Voice • Measure impressions, advice, and circumstances against the written Word. • “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” (1 John 4:1) 5. Obey Promptly • Guidance becomes clear when the heart is ready to follow. • “If anyone chooses to do His will, he will find out whether My teaching comes from God.” (John 7:17) Practical Steps to Live It Out • Schedule non-negotiable time with God at the start of each day. • Keep a decision journal: record choices, related Scriptures, and outcomes. • Memorize key guidance promises (e.g., Isaiah 30:21; Jeremiah 33:3). • Before big decisions, fast from hurried media intake to heighten spiritual sensitivity. • Invite accountability partners to ask, “Have you sought the Lord about this?” Encouraging Promises to Stand On • “The LORD Himself will go before you and be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:8) • “Call to Me and I will answer you and show you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” (Jeremiah 33:3) • “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13) Jehoshaphat’s simple request—“please inquire first for the word of the LORD”—remains the believer’s safest first move. When God’s counsel is sought and obeyed, His guidance proves faithful every time. |
    |