In what ways can we seek God's guidance before engaging in conflicts today? Setting the Scene: Genesis 14:8 “Then the kings of Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboiim, and Bela (that is, Zoar) marched out and arrayed themselves in battle in the Valley of Siddim.” The five kings hurried into conflict without ever consulting the LORD. Their swift defeat (14:10–11) contrasts sharply with Abram’s later victory when he acts in alignment with God’s promise (14:13–16). From their mistake, we learn the importance of pausing to seek God before stepping onto any battlefield—military, relational, verbal, or cultural. Why Seeking God Matters • Scripture presents the LORD as the true Commander of His people’s battles (Exodus 14:14; Psalm 24:8). • Rushing ahead invites unnecessary defeat (Proverbs 19:2). • God grants wisdom that is “first pure, then peaceable” (James 3:17), preventing conflicts that never needed to occur. Practical Ways to Seek God’s Guidance Before Conflict 1. Prayerful Humility • Like Jehoshaphat who “set his face to seek the LORD” before war (2 Chronicles 20:3–4). • Pray specifically for God’s perspective, not merely for victory (Matthew 6:10). 2. Immerse in the Word • “Your word is a lamp to my feet” (Psalm 119:105). • Let Scripture expose motives (Hebrews 4:12) and shape strategy (Joshua 1:7–9). 3. Inquire of the LORD • David asked, “Shall I pursue?” and waited for a clear answer (1 Samuel 30:7–8). • Use purposeful pauses: take hours or days to listen rather than react. 4. Seek Godly Counsel • “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). • Invite mature believers to test your reasons and proposed actions against biblical truth. 5. Fasting and Worship • Acts 13:2–3 shows guidance emerging as the church fasted and ministered to the Lord. • Fasting quiets fleshly impulses; worship recenters the heart on God, not personal vindication. 6. Examine Motives • James 4:1–3 links quarrels to selfish desires. • Ask: Is my aim God’s righteousness (Matthew 6:33) or personal pride? 7. Wait for the Peace of Christ • “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” (Colossians 3:15). • If peace is absent, delay action until He clarifies. 8. Put On the Full Armor • Ephesians 6:10–18 reminds us every conflict has unseen spiritual dimensions. • Truth, righteousness, faith, and the Word guard against flesh-driven responses. Outcomes of Seeking God First • Clear direction—whether to proceed, pause, or pursue peace (Romans 12:18). • Divine protection and provision, as Abram experienced (Genesis 14:20). • A witness to unbelievers that God, not human strength, secures victory (1 Samuel 17:47). Living It Today Before the next difficult conversation, family dispute, or public debate: • Kneel before rushing in. • Open the Bible before opening your mouth. • Consult wise believers before drafting your strategy. • Fast and worship until the Spirit’s peace settles. By replacing impulsive reactions with deliberate dependence on the LORD, we mirror Abram’s faith, avoid the five kings’ folly, and allow God to fight—and win—our battles His way. |
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