What can we learn about seeking God's guidance before making alliances? Setting the Scene “Then Amaziah king of Judah took counsel and sent word to Joash … saying, ‘Come, let us meet face to face.’” (2 Chronicles 25:17) Amaziah had just beaten Edom, but instead of seeking the Lord for his next step, he sought human advice and provoked a fight with Israel. The result was disaster (vv. 20-24). His story underscores how crucial it is to ask God first when forming partnerships or alliances. What Went Wrong for Amaziah • He “took counsel” from men, not from God. • His earlier obedience (sending Israelite mercenaries home, vv. 7-10) did not guarantee continued dependence on the Lord. • Idolatry had already clouded his heart (v. 14). Misplaced worship leads to misguided decisions. • Because he ignored divine warning, the Lord “ordained that he be delivered” (v. 20). Timeless Lessons on Seeking God First • One victory doesn’t remove the need for fresh guidance. Yesterday’s obedience cannot substitute for today’s dependence. • Human counsel is limited; divine counsel is limitless (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Misplaced worship leads to misplaced alliances. Keep God at the center to keep decisions straight. • Ignoring God’s voice can turn friends into foes and victories into defeats (Psalm 33:16-17). Reinforcing Scriptures • Joshua 9:14 — “But did not seek the counsel of the LORD.” Israel’s treaty with Gibeon created lasting complications. • 2 Chronicles 18:4 — Jehoshaphat asked Ahab to inquire of the LORD, yet still partnered with him and nearly lost his life. • 2 Samuel 5:19 — “So David inquired of the LORD…” and won. A model of seeking God before battle. • Proverbs 3:5-6 — Trust, lean not on your own understanding; God will direct paths. • James 1:5 — God “gives generously to all” who ask for wisdom. Practical Takeaways for Today • Pause before committing to any alliance—business, political, relational, or ministry—until you have prayed and searched Scripture. • Measure counsel by its alignment with God’s Word, not by convenience or popularity. • Keep your heart free from competing loyalties (idols); purity of worship clarifies hearing. • Remember: every alliance affects more than just you; Amaziah’s choice rippled through Judah. • Regularly revisit earlier victories with gratitude, but seek new instructions for new battles. Summary Amaziah’s failure began the moment he consulted people instead of the Lord. His story teaches that seeking God’s guidance is not optional; it is essential protection before entering any alliance. |
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