2 Chronicles 18:4

But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, "Please inquire first for the word of the LORD."

Study Bible

But Jehoshaphat
Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, is a significant figure known for his devotion to God and efforts to lead his people in righteousness. His name in Hebrew, יְהוֹשָׁפָט (Yehoshafat), means "Yahweh has judged." This reflects his character as a king who sought divine guidance and justice. Historically, Jehoshaphat's reign was marked by religious reforms and a commitment to the worship of Yahweh, distinguishing him from many of his contemporaries.

also said
The phrase "also said" indicates that Jehoshaphat is adding to a conversation or decision-making process. In the context of ancient Near Eastern royal courts, it was common for kings to consult with advisors and prophets. Jehoshaphat's insistence on seeking divine counsel highlights his reliance on spiritual wisdom over mere human strategy.

to the king of Israel
The king of Israel at this time was Ahab, a ruler often criticized in the Bible for his idolatry and alliance with pagan practices. The political alliance between Jehoshaphat and Ahab, through marriage, was a strategic move but also a spiritual compromise. This relationship sets the stage for the tension between following God's will and succumbing to political expediency.

'Please inquire first
Jehoshaphat's request to "inquire first" underscores the importance of seeking God's guidance before making decisions. The Hebrew root for "inquire" is דָּרַשׁ (darash), which means to seek or consult. This reflects a proactive approach to understanding God's will, emphasizing the priority of divine direction in leadership and personal life.

for the word of the LORD.'
The "word of the LORD" refers to divine revelation or prophecy, often delivered through prophets. In the Hebrew context, the word "LORD" is יהוה (Yahweh), the covenant name of God, signifying His eternal presence and faithfulness. Jehoshaphat's desire to hear from Yahweh highlights his commitment to aligning his actions with God's purposes, contrasting with Ahab's tendency to follow false prophets. This phrase serves as a reminder of the authority and reliability of God's word in guiding believers through life's challenges.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The king of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and efforts to bring spiritual reform to his kingdom. He sought God's guidance before making decisions.

2. The King of Israel
At this time, Ahab was the king of Israel. He was known for his idolatry and opposition to the prophets of the LORD.

3. Inquiry of the LORD
This event highlights the practice of seeking divine guidance through prophets or priests before making significant decisions, a common practice in ancient Israel.

4. Prophets
Individuals who served as God's messengers, providing guidance and revelation to the kings and people of Israel and Judah.

5. Ramoth-gilead
A city of strategic importance, which was the focus of the military campaign discussed in this chapter.

Teaching Points

Seeking God's Guidance
Jehoshaphat's request to inquire of the LORD underscores the importance of seeking divine guidance in our decisions. As believers, we should prioritize God's wisdom over human counsel.

Discernment in Alliances
Jehoshaphat's alliance with Ahab serves as a cautionary tale about forming partnerships. We must discern the spiritual alignment of those we join forces with, ensuring they share our commitment to God's principles.

The Role of Prophets and Scripture
In the Old Testament, prophets were the primary means of receiving God's word. Today, we have the complete canon of Scripture, which serves as our guide and authority in discerning God's will.

The Consequences of Ignoring God’s Word
Ahab's disregard for the true prophets of God led to his downfall. Ignoring God's word can lead to dire consequences, emphasizing the need for obedience and reverence for His instructions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoshaphat's request to inquire of the LORD before going to battle reflect his character and priorities? How can we apply this principle in our decision-making today?

2. What are some modern-day equivalents of "inquiring of the LORD," and how can we ensure we are genuinely seeking God's guidance in our lives?

3. Reflect on a time when you faced a decision and sought God's guidance. What was the outcome, and how did it impact your faith journey?

4. How can we discern whether our alliances or partnerships align with God's will, and what steps can we take to ensure they honor Him?

5. In what ways can we cultivate a deeper reliance on Scripture as our primary source of guidance and wisdom in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 22
This parallel account provides additional details about the events surrounding Jehoshaphat and Ahab's alliance and the inquiry of the LORD.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Emphasizes the importance of trusting in the LORD and seeking His guidance in all our ways, similar to Jehoshaphat's request for divine counsel.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to ask God for wisdom, promising that He gives generously to all without finding fault.