What can we learn from Jehoram's actions about seeking God's guidance in decisions? The Setting: Ramoth-gilead and a Rash Alliance 2 Kings 8:28 records, “Ahaziah went with Joram son of Ahab to fight against Hazael king of Aram at Ramoth-gilead, but the Arameans wounded Joram.” Jehoram (also called Joram) of Israel throws himself into battle without a hint of prophetic consultation. His ally, Ahaziah of Judah, joins him, repeating the same mistake. No one pauses to ask, “Is this the LORD’s will?” Jehoram’s Misstep: Acting Before Asking • He follows the pattern of Ahab’s house—moving on impulse, not instruction (cf. 2 Kings 8:18). • He allies himself with another king steeped in idolatry, ignoring God’s clear warning about unequal partnerships (2 Chron 19:2). • He seeks military advantage, not divine approval, and ends up wounded; his campaign stalls and his dynasty spirals toward judgment (2 Kings 9:24–29). Key Takeaways for Seeking God’s Guidance • Ask first, act later. Proverbs 3:5-6—“Trust in the LORD with all your heart…and He will make your paths straight.” • Avoid alliances that pull you away from wholehearted obedience (2 Corinthians 6:14 principle seen in Old Testament form). • Recognize that past victories never guarantee future blessing; fresh dependence is required each time (1 Samuel 23:2 vs. 1 Chron 14:10). • God’s silence is not permission. When prophetic counsel is absent, wait (Isaiah 30:1, 18). Scripture Echoes That Reinforce the Lesson • 2 Chron 18:4—Jehoshaphat models the opposite spirit: “Please inquire first for the word of the LORD.” • James 1:5—“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.” • Psalm 32:8—“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My loving eye on you.” • 2 Kings 3:9-14—On another occasion Jehoram panics in the wilderness, then scrambles to find Elisha; the prophet rebukes him for making God an afterthought. Consequences Underscoring the Principle • Physical: Jehoram is wounded; his strength fails at the critical moment (8:28-29). • Political: The house of Ahab collapses soon after (2 Kings 9–10). • Spiritual: Both Israel and Judah slide deeper into apostasy because their leaders refuse to seek God. Putting It Into Practice Today • Start every decision—large or small—with deliberate prayer and Scripture. • Weigh potential partnerships by their tendency to foster or hinder faithfulness. • Measure success not by immediate results but by alignment with God’s revealed will. • Remember that God delights to guide; neglecting His counsel endangers more than we can see. |
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