How can we seek God's guidance instead of worldly alliances like Asa did? Historical Snapshot: Asa’s Misstep “In the thirty-sixth year of Asa’s reign, Baasha king of Israel went up against Judah and fortified Ramah to prevent anyone from leaving or entering the territory of Asa king of Judah.” (2 Chronicles 16:1) Rather than look to the LORD, Asa stripped silver and gold from the temple and bought help from Ben-hadad of Aram. The alliance worked militarily—but cost Asa spiritual peace, ongoing war (v. 9), and eventual disease (v. 12). What Went Wrong? • Forgetting past victories God had already given (2 Chronicles 14:9-13) • Leaning on political power instead of divine power (16:2-3) • Closing his ears to prophetic correction (16:7-10) • Trading short-term security for long-term consequences (16:9) Why Seeking God Matters • God sees and supports those fully devoted to Him—“For the eyes of the LORD roam to and fro over all the earth to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him.” (2 Chronicles 16:9) • Human strength is limited—“Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” (Psalm 20:7) • Worldly alliances can become snares—“Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help… They do not seek the LORD.” (Isaiah 31:1) Practical Ways to Seek God’s Guidance • Consistent, honest prayer – Pour out concerns before acting (Philippians 4:6-7). – Ask specifically; expect His peace to guard decision-making. • Scripture saturation – Daily reading positions the heart to hear God’s voice (Psalm 119:105). – Note promises and commands that relate to current choices. • Fasting when choices are weighty – Acts 13:2-3 shows leaders fasting before sending missionaries. – Fasting clears distractions and sharpens spiritual hearing. • Seeking godly counsel – “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22) – Choose counselors whose lives reflect submission to Scripture. • Waiting for confirmation – “Trust in the LORD… in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) – Rushed decisions often bypass God’s timing. • Immediate obedience to what God already revealed – Light for the next step is given as we walk in the light we have (John 14:21). Promises for Those Who Trust God • “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you.” (Psalm 32:8) • “The LORD will continually guide you; He will satisfy your desire in scorched places.” (Isaiah 58:11) • “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5) Scriptural Reminders to Guard Our Hearts • Jeremiah 17:5-8—cursed is the man who trusts in flesh; blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD. • Matthew 6:33—seek first His kingdom and righteousness; everything else will be added. • Colossians 3:15—let the peace of Christ rule (act as umpire) in your hearts. Choosing God’s guidance over worldly alliances is not merely safer; it is the path of life, peace, and lasting fruitfulness. |
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