What can we learn from the Danites' request to "inquire of God"? Setting the Scene “Then they said to him, ‘Please inquire of God to learn whether our journey will be successful.’ ” (Judges 18:5) What They Did Right • They paused before acting, showing that major decisions belong before the Lord. • They acknowledged God’s sovereignty; success depended on His favor, not their strength (cf. Proverbs 3:5-6). • They sought a word, anticipating that God speaks and guides (cf. James 1:5). Where They Went Wrong • They used a compromised channel—Micah’s private shrine—ignoring the tabernacle established in Shiloh (Deuteronomy 12:5-7). • Their approach was utilitarian: “Will our plan work?” rather than “Is our plan righteous?” • They treated a Levite-for-hire as a lucky charm, revealing hearts already drifting toward idolatry (Judges 18:30-31). Lessons on Genuine Inquiry • God welcomes requests for direction, yet He requires reverence, repentance, and alignment with revealed truth (Psalm 25:4-5). • Inquiry must flow from covenant obedience; we may not ask His blessing on self-willed schemes (Isaiah 30:1). • The answer we receive is authoritative only when it conforms to Scripture; counterfeit confirmation can arise from compromised sources (2 Corinthians 11:14). Consequences Illustrated • A superficial inquiry produced temporary success—Laish was captured—yet seeded long-term apostasy for the tribe (Judges 18:27-31). • Blessing obtained by bypassing God’s appointed means leads to spiritual barrenness, even if outward goals are met. Practical Takeaways for Believers Today • Pause and pray early; do not bolt forward and seek validation later. • Test every leading against clear biblical commands; the Spirit never contradicts the Word. • Reject shortcuts—compromised counsel, pragmatism, or superstition. • Pursue God’s presence more than His predictions; obedience matters more than outcomes. Walking in God-Honoring Inquiry “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) |
    |