Why is seeking "the word of the LORD" crucial before making decisions? Setting the Scene • Life overflows with decisions—some routine, some life-altering. • 1 Kings 22 captures a moment when Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, recognized the need for divine guidance before marching into battle. • 1 Kings 22:5: “But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, ‘Please inquire first for the word of the LORD.’” What Happened in 1 Kings 22:5? • King Ahab wanted Jehoshaphat to join him against Ramoth-gilead. • Jehoshaphat agreed in principle but insisted on hearing the LORD’s word first. • This pause revealed a heart that honored God’s authority above political alliances or human confidence. Key Reasons to Seek the Word of the LORD Before Choices • God’s word is inerrant, trustworthy, and final; it never misleads. • Divine counsel exposes hidden motives and unseen dangers. • Scripture reveals God’s character, ensuring decisions align with His holiness. • The LORD’s wisdom transcends human insight, protecting from self-reliance. Scriptural Reinforcement • Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” • Psalm 119:105 — “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” • Jeremiah 10:23 — “A man’s way is not his own; no one who walks directs his own steps.” • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 — Scripture equips believers “for every good work.” • Isaiah 55:8-9 — God’s thoughts and ways soar far above human reasoning. • James 1:5 — God gives wisdom generously to those who ask. • John 16:13 — The Spirit guides into all truth, never contradicting the written word. Practical Ways to Seek God’s Word Today • Open the Bible daily with expectation, reading contextually and prayerfully. • Compare every idea, plan, or counsel against clear Scriptural teaching. • Invite the Holy Spirit to illuminate passages that speak to the decision at hand. • Consult mature believers who handle the word accurately (Acts 17:11). • Journal insights and commitments drawn directly from Scripture. Consequences of Skipping Divine Counsel • Ahab ignored Micaiah’s warning and died in battle (1 Kings 22:35-38). • Sarai’s scheme with Hagar (Genesis 16) produced strife that echoes through history. • Israel’s refusal to hear God at Kadesh-barnea led to forty wilderness years (Numbers 14:39-45). Blessings That Follow Obedience • David’s victories came after inquiring of the LORD (2 Samuel 5:19-25). • Jehoshaphat later saw God deliver Judah when he sought Him (2 Chronicles 20:3-30). • Peace, clarity, and spiritual maturity blossom wherever God’s word directs the path. In every season and circumstance, pausing—like Jehoshaphat—to hear the unfailing word of the LORD roots decisions in eternal truth and secures outcomes that honor Him. |
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