June 20

Inquire of the Lord

Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 136:1-9;  1 Kings 22:1-53;   Acts 13:16-41;  Proverbs 17:17-18

Today’s Scripture Focus:  1 Kings 22

“Will you go with me to fight against Ramoth Gilead?” Jehoshaphat replied to the king of Israel, “I am as you are, my people as your people, my horses as your horses. But Jehoshaphat also said to the King of Israel, “First seek the counsel of the LORD” (1 Kings 22:4-5 TNIV).

Ahab and Jehoshaphat were ready to join forces to recapture Ramoth Gilead. Jehoshaphat made one wise request before pledging full support, Let’s seek the counsel of the LORD. He knew that to make a decision with out inquiring of the LORD was to make a decision too quickly.

The LORD’s wisdom includes information about the seen and the unseen. We see only part of the picture. God knows what will happen. He knows the hidden purposes he will accomplish. His ways are higher than ours—but he has promised to reveal his wisdom if we ask for it.

The LORD’s wisdom is not always what we want to hear, either. Ahab was hesitant to call on the prophet Micaiah since he always prophesied what Ahab didn’t want to hear. We sometimes surround ourselves with counselors who will only tell us what we want to hear. But there is wisdom in seeking the LORD’s counsel from one who has the integrity to tell us the truth—even when the truth hurts.

The messenger sought out Micaiah and asked him to speak the same words as the other prophets. His response was filled with wisdom,” As surely as the LORD lives, I can tell him only what the LORD tells me.” To speak in any other way is to become a false prophet.

Seek the LORD and his counsel. When he speaks, listen, even if it is not what you want to hear.

When you are asked for counsel, seek the LORD and his wisdom first. Do not presume to know his will without seeking his counsel. Do not just tell people what they want to hear. Hear from the LORD and speak the truth even when it isn’t popular.

Lord, fill me with wisdom and understanding. Surround me with people who hear from you and speak truth. Help me to listen even when the truth is not easy to hear. Amen.