1 Kings 22:5
And Jehoshaphat said to the king of Israel, “Inquire first for the word of the LORD.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
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This simple request is actually Jehoshaphat's boldest move here; he's calling out the king of Israel for habitually ignoring God's voice in critical moments. It highlights how, even when surrounded by flawed leadership, faithfully seeking God's word is a powerful, non-negotiable first step.
King Ahab of Israel is about to go to war against the Syrians and asks his guest, King Jehoshaphat of Judah, to join him. Jehoshaphat readily agrees to fight but, sensing something is amiss, immediately presses Ahab to seek God's guidance first, a step Ahab seems to have neglected. This question sets up the dramatic encounter with the prophets that follows, highlighting the deep spiritual divide between the two kings.
When faced with a big decision, who do you turn to first? What if the leaders around you have different ideas?
The First Step: Seek the LORD
King Jehoshaphat, a man walking with God, faces a critical moment. King Ahab of Israel wants to go to battle, but Jehoshaphat immediately insists, “Inquire first for the word of the LORD.” This isn't just a suggestion; it's a foundational principle for anyone who claims to follow God.
Have you ever heard what you wanted to hear, even if it wasn't the truth? What happens when we surround ourselves with people who only agree with us?
Ahab's Echo Chamber
King Ahab had just asked Jehoshaphat to join him in battle. Before Jehoshaphat's crucial interjection, Ahab had his own court prophets (400 of them!) declare that he would surely win. This is a classic example of what happens when leaders ignore God's true word and instead listen to those who offer flattering, comfortable lies.
Understand the original words
darash · Hebrew Verb
A verb meaning to seek, search for, or ask; in a spiritual sense, it denotes consulting God or His prophets for guidance, truth, or direction.
YHWH · Hebrew Proper Noun
The self-revealing name of the one true God of Israel (YHWH), signifying His eternal existence, covenant faithfulness, and authority over all creation.
This passage echoes Jehoshaphat's desire, highlighting God's promise to raise up prophets and the consequences for those who disregard His message.
1 Samuel 15:23This verse shows the severe consequence of rejecting God's word, illustrating why Jehoshaphat’s plea to 'inquire first for the word of the LORD' was so crucial.
Jeremiah 7:23This prophetic call emphasizes God's primary command to listen to Him, reinforcing Jehoshaphat's urgent plea to seek God’s direction above all else.
Proverbs 3:5-6This proverb offers wise counsel on trusting and seeking God's guidance in all our ways, mirroring the wisdom in Jehoshaphat's request to the king of Israel.
This simple request is actually Jehoshaphat's boldest move here; he's calling out the king of Israel for habitually ignoring God's voice in critical moments. It highlights how, even when surrounded by flawed leadership, faithfully seeking God's word is a powerful, non-negotiable first step.
King Ahab of Israel is about to go to war against the Syrians and asks his guest, King Jehoshaphat of Judah, to join him. Jehoshaphat readily agrees to fight but, sensing something is amiss, immediately presses Ahab to seek God's guidance first, a step Ahab seems to have neglected. This question sets up the dramatic encounter with the prophets that follows, highlighting the deep spiritual divide between the two kings.
King Ahab of Israel is about to go to war against the Syrians and asks his guest, King Jehoshaphat of Judah, to join him. Jehoshaphat readily agrees to fight but, sensing something is amiss, immediately presses Ahab to seek God's guidance first, a step Ahab seems to have neglected. This question sets up the dramatic encounter with the prophets that follows, highlighting the deep spiritual divide between the two kings.
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"And Jehoshaphat said to the king of Israel, “Inquire first for the word of the LORD.”" — This simple request is actually Jehoshaphat's boldest move here; he's calling out the king of Israel for habitually ignoring God's voice in critical moments. It highlights how, even when surrounded b…
