How can we apply the example of seeking a prophet's counsel in our lives? Setting the Scene “Jehoshaphat asked, ‘Is there no prophet of the LORD here, that we may inquire of the LORD through him?’ … And one of the servants of the king of Israel answered, ‘Elisha son of Shaphat is here, who poured water on the hands of Elijah.’” (2 Kings 3:11) Why Jehoshaphat Looked for a Prophet • He believed God spoke through chosen messengers. • He refused to rely on military force or political alliances alone. • He expected a clear, authoritative word from the LORD before acting. From Ancient Prophets to Present Guidance • God still speaks with clarity—now through the completed written Word. • “In the past God spoke to our fathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son.” (Hebrews 1:1-2) • The Holy Spirit illuminates Scripture, applying it to specific situations (John 16:13). Practical Ways to “Seek a Prophet’s Counsel” Today • Open the Bible first. Treat it as the final authority, not a last resort. • Read systematically, not only devotionally—whole books, not isolated verses. • Compare Scripture with Scripture; let clearer texts shed light on harder ones. • Invite wise, biblically grounded believers—pastors, elders, mature friends—to help you discern. “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14) • Test every impression, dream, or piece of advice against Scripture (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • Pray for specific insight: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.” (James 1:5) • Obey promptly. The blessing follows faith-filled obedience, just as the victory in 2 Kings 3 followed heeding Elisha. Guardrails Against Counterfeit Voices • Reject anything contradicting the clear teaching of the Bible (Galatians 1:8). • Beware of advice that elevates personal feelings over God’s written Word. • Remember God’s gifts exist to build up the church, not to entertain or control (Ephesians 4:11-14). Contemporary Benefits of Prophetic-Type Counsel • Direction in major decisions—career, marriage, ministry. • Correction when drifting toward sin. • Encouragement to persevere in trials. • Confirmation of God’s promises and timing. Take-Home Truths • Like Jehoshaphat, refuse to move forward without hearing from the LORD. • God’s prophetic voice is preserved in Scripture; treasure it, study it, submit to it. • Seek out godly counselors who echo, not replace, the Bible. • Expect God to guide today as surely as He guided through Elisha then. |
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