How can we seek God's guidance instead of "making a covenant with Assyria"? The Historical Snapshot Hosea 12:1: “Ephraim feeds on the wind and chases the east wind all day. He multiplies lies and violence. He makes a covenant with Assyria, and oil is carried to Egypt.” • Israel (Ephraim) looked to powerful neighbors for security instead of to the LORD. • “Oil” symbolized tribute—paying for protection they should have sought from God. • The strategy seemed politically smart, yet proved spiritually disastrous (cf. 2 Kings 17:3–6). What “A Covenant with Assyria” Symbolizes Today • Seeking human solutions first, prayer last. • Depending on wealth, connections, or technology more than on God. • Compromise or entanglement with systems that reject His authority (James 4:4). Why Worldly Alliances Fail • They invite God’s discipline (Isaiah 31:1). • They offer false security (Jeremiah 17:5). • They erode wholehearted devotion (Matthew 6:24). God’s Open Invitation to Guide Us • Psalm 32:8: “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you.” • Proverbs 3:5–6: Trust brings straight paths—not dead-end treaties. • James 1:5: He “gives generously to all” who ask for wisdom. Practical Pathways to Seek His Guidance 1. Re-center on Scripture – Daily intake (Psalm 119:105). – Measure every option against clear commands and principles. 2. Cultivate Consistent Prayer – Begin decisions on your knees, not in boardrooms (Philippians 4:6–7). – Listen in silence as well as speak. 3. Seek God-honoring Counsel – Invite input from mature believers (Proverbs 15:22). – Confirm that counsel aligns with the Word, not cultural trends. 4. Practice Immediate Obedience – Light for the next step appears as we walk in the last light given (John 7:17). 5. Maintain Spiritual Integrity – Reject shortcuts that compromise righteousness (Psalm 24:3–5). – Trust God’s timing rather than forcing outcomes. 6. Remember Past Faithfulness – Keep a journal of answered prayers (1 Samuel 7:12). – Rehearse His track record when tempted to forge earthly alliances. Encouragement for the Journey Turning to God instead of Assyria may look risky, yet it is the only secure path. He delights to lead those who trust Him, and His counsel never collapses under pressure. Stand firm, seek His face, and watch Him prove that His guidance is better than any treaty this world can offer. |
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