"Have You Asked the Lord About It?"

“Then the men of Israel inspected some of the provisions of the Gibeonites; but they did not ask counsel of the Lord.” (Joshua 9:14 paraphrased)

“Woe to the rebellious children, says the Lord, who take counsel, but not of me, and who devise plans, but not of my Spirit, who go down to Egypt, but have not asked my advice” (Isaiah 30:1-2 paraphrased.)

In the days of Joshua the leaders of Israel made a forbidden treaty with the pagan Gibeonites, because they failed to consult the Lord about their decision. Later, in the days of the kingdom, again Israel’s leaders made alliances and choices regarding Egypt that were not good because they failed to ask God’s counsel. In both instances much suffering for God’s people resulted.
How often major decisions are made in the lives of believers without consulting God! The principles of God’s Holy Word are not searched out and obeyed. Prayer is not offered and God’s opinion and leadership is not sought. Wise counsel from the oldest and most experienced of God’s saints is not requested. Questions of the most profound and far-reaching impact are never directed to God: “What job shall I seek? Where shall I attend college? Whom shall I marry? Where should I worship and place church membership? What political party should I join, if any? Should I build a home, buy a house, rent-if so, where?”
All the important decisions of life involve relationships with others. Who we become involved with, form friendships with, live with and among, depend upon for basic needs, safety, and happiness is so important! How can we choose well and wisely if we fail to “ask counsel of the Lord”?
So much of our sorrow in this world is of our own making. So many of our heartaches could be avoided. When we consult God about all our major choices we are guaranteed a right answer and a blessed life! May we do so!


Larry Atkin, Preacher