"You shall make no covenant with them or with their gods”. Exodus 23:32-33

An alliance seeks to further common interests.  At work and in all aspects of life, alliances potentially foster growth since as the common saying goes, “Alone we can do little but together we can do much”. However, some alliances that entice us may be ruinous. Such was the unholy alliance between Kings Jehoshaphat and Ahab (2^nd Chronicles 18). Ahab, King of Israel sought Jehoshaphat to join him in a war against Ramoth Gilead. Victory was prophesied by a deceiving Spirit in the mouths of 400 false Prophets. It was a plot to entice Ahab into attacking Ramoth Gilead and going to his death there.

After joining Ahab in the war, Jehoshaphat escaped death narrowly, while Ahab died.  They had failed to listen to the true prophesy from the Prophet of the Lord, since he had spoken unfavourably and failed to predict victory for the King. But what the Lord says, He will do. He cannot be bent by anybody no matter how important he thinks he is. Jehoshaphat learned his lesson well; to seek and heed the counsel of the Lord. He later advised his men, “Consider carefully what you do… let the fear of the Lord be on you… for with the Lord our God there is no injustice or partiality or bribery.”2 Chronicles 19:6-7

Which unholy alliances are you harbouring? What misplaced priorities, fears, mind-set and beliefs have held you back from God’s promises and close fellowship?

Jesus said, "After this I will not speak much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over Me" (John 14:30).

In all your decisions, act with courage and truth, and the Lord will be with you.

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It is a power stronger than will. Could a stone escape from the laws of gravity? Impossible. Impossible, for evil to form an alliance with good. ~ Isidore Ducasse Lautreamont

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