Ungodly alliances

Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers…2 Corinthians 6:14 is all about ungodly alliances. How often do godly people end up limiting their potential in God by partnering with worldly people. This partnership could be romantic relationships, marriage, business or friendships to name a few. The scripture further goes on to inquire what agreement does righteousness have with unrighteousness. Meaning that our alliances should not compromise our stance of holiness and righteous living.
King Jehoshaphat we are in told in scripture was allied to King Ahab by marriage. King Ahab was not necessarily an unbeliever. However he had lived a life of compromise, primarily stemming from marrying a gentile who introduced false Gods and wicked ways to the land of Israel. As a result of Ahab’s ungodly alliance God had declared judgment on him, and it was only a matter of time before his end would come. Thus when Jehoshaphat married into Ahab’s family he was treading on dangerous ground. Sometimes we as believers ignore God’s leading, or wise counsel by other Christians and pursue alliances of compromise. Yes, that person may be a Christian, but are they sold out to God? You may be blinded or biased because of your position, but have your mentors pointed out any issues with the alliance? Will you move forward despite these red flags?
That is exactly what Jehoshaphat did in the battle against Aram at Ramoth-Gilead. Due to treaty obligations Jehoshaphat warred together with Ahab. However this was the battle that divinely sentenced Ahab to death. Jehoshaphat was a hair’s breadth away from sharing the same fate as Ahab. But fortunately for him, God spared him. Upon Ahab’s death, Jehoshaphat finds himself partnering again with this family. Remember he was obligated by marriage, and thus would constantly be placed in situations of compromise. One wrong decision years ago, resulted in consequences that were largely unavoidable. This time around, Jehoshaphat suffered great losses because God condemned his business dealings with Ahaziah, son of Ahab.
What can we learn from Jehoshaphat? Avoid ungodly alliances. Remember oftentimes you will be emotionally and subjectively affected. Listen to the voice of God in others, and not just yourself. Prophets had confirmed Jehoshaphat’s partnerships were forbidden, but yet he forged ahead. God may not use a prophet of old as he did, but be sure he is still speaking prophetically. Yes through you, but also through others around you who care for and watch over you. Beware of ungodly alliances for they could affect your destiny, limit your potential, and leave you with a lifetime of regrets.