What is the meaning of 1 Kings 22:5? But Jehoshaphat also said... Jehoshaphat has just listened to Ahab’s enthusiasm about recapturing Ramoth-gilead, yet he refuses to be swept along. By speaking up, he shows a steady heart that values obedience over politics. A parallel scene in 2 Chronicles 18:3-4 records the same moment, underscoring its importance. Like David who “inquired of the LORD, saying, ‘Shall I go up?’” (2 Samuel 5:19), Jehoshaphat models a reflex of dependence—an example for every believer who faces pressure to conform. to the king of Israel Addressing Ahab directly, he honors the political hierarchy while holding it accountable to divine authority. Romans 13:1 reminds us that earthly rulers exist under God’s sovereignty, and Proverbs 29:26 points out that “justice for man comes from the LORD.” Jehoshaphat’s respectful yet firm appeal illustrates how a godly person can engage rulers without compromise: • He does not rebel or insult. • He does not remain silent. • He steers the conversation toward God’s will. “Please inquire first...” The adverb “first” sets the order of priorities—seek God before strategies, alliances, or military plans. Jesus later affirms this timeless principle: “Seek first the kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:33). Gideon tested battle plans by asking the LORD for confirmation (Judges 7:9-15), and Joshua learned painfully at Ai what happens when consultation comes second (Joshua 7). The lesson is unmistakable: • Before you act, ask. • Before you counsel others, consult the Lord yourself. • Before you assume success, submit the plan. for the word of the LORD.” Jehoshaphat wants a fresh, specific declaration from God, not mere tradition or popular opinion. He is echoing Deuteronomy 8:3: “Man does not live on bread alone but on every word that proceeds from the mouth of the LORD.” Throughout Scripture, God’s spoken word directs outcomes—consider Elijah’s word shutting heaven (1 Kings 17:1) and Isaiah’s word extending Hezekiah’s life (Isaiah 38:4-5). By insisting on the LORD’s word: • He lifts prophetic truth above political consensus. • He exposes the poverty of Ahab’s 400 court prophets (1 Kings 22:6) who speak without genuine revelation. • He anticipates the ultimate Word made flesh who said, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me” (John 4:34). summary 1 Kings 22:5 portrays a king who pauses a royal war council to demand divine counsel. Jehoshaphat’s simple request teaches that spiritual discernment outranks human strategy, respect for authority coexists with loyalty to God, and nothing substitutes for a fresh, authoritative word from the LORD. |
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