Associations MatterSample

"Disguised" Discerning connections with people is very important. One should not only maintain love for family and friends but it is wise to implement discernment regarding all associations when tasks are requested of you. Reason being, seeking God’s direction in all things regarding all people in our lives is vital. Don’t be naïve to believe that everyone cares about your spiritual and physical development. In life you might encounter a disguised low-key foe if you haven’t already. Low-key foes are disguised enemies that: seek to destroy you, utilize excessive flattery, appear to value your advice, manipulators, masters of division and they even share weaknesses with you (pitiful drama filled fabrications paired with that one tear that slowly strolls down their face). But even in the midst of being amongst disguised associates, Praise God that no weapon formed against you will prosper and God uses all things for the good of those who love Him and have been called according to his purpose! When one doesn’t seek God’s wisdom and guidance regarding the causes we partner in, one could end up in a mess that only God can deliver them from. This has happened to me and I had to endure the consequences of my actions. Similarly this happened with King Jehoshaphat and King Ahab. Jehoshaphat agreed to go into battle with King Ahab against Ramoth-gilead. Jehoshaphat communicated with Ahab to inquire of the LORD regarding his battle plans and King Ahab gathered nearly 400 prophets to seek confirmation regarding his initial battle plan, each of the 400 prophets were dishonest with him in their flattery. But a true prophet of God named Micaiah declared Ahab’s certain defeat at Ramoth-gilead and despite the warning Jehoshaphat nevertheless went out with Ahab in battle. But before they went out to fight, Ahab expressed to Jehoshaphat to put on his royal robes as he disguised himself. This was a setup. Ahab associated himself with Jehoshaphat to pick up a cause that Jehoshaphat didn’t realize the severity of. When the Aram captains saw Jehoshaphat royally suited and booted they turned to fight him, but oh how quickly Jehoshaphat called out to the LORD and God delivered them away from him. This is a lesson for us not to align with everyone’s cause because they are connected to us. We are to seek God’s wisdom and guidance regarding all associations and plans.