The principle of consulting God first is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of seeking divine guidance before making decisions or taking action. This practice is rooted in the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty, wisdom, and intimate involvement in the lives of His people.

Old Testament Examples

1. King David: David is a prime example of someone who consistently sought God's guidance. In 1 Samuel 23:2, David inquired of the Lord, asking, "Shall I go and attack these Philistines?" The Lord responded affirmatively, demonstrating His willingness to guide those who seek Him. Similarly, in 2 Samuel 5:19, David again inquired of the Lord before going into battle, and God provided specific instructions.

2. Joshua: Before the battle of Jericho, Joshua received detailed instructions from God on how to conquer the city (Joshua 6:2-5). However, when the Israelites failed to consult God before attacking Ai, they suffered a defeat (Joshua 7:2-5). This incident underscores the importance of seeking God's counsel in all matters.

3. King Jehoshaphat: In 2 Chronicles 20:3-4, when faced with a vast army, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord and proclaimed a fast for all Judah. The people of Judah came together to seek help from the Lord, demonstrating collective reliance on divine guidance.

New Testament Teachings

1. Jesus Christ: Jesus exemplified a life of constant communion with the Father. In Luke 6:12-13, before choosing His twelve apostles, Jesus spent the night praying to God. This act of seeking divine direction before making significant decisions is a model for believers.

2. The Apostles: In Acts 1:24-26, before selecting Matthias to replace Judas Iscariot, the apostles prayed, asking the Lord to show them whom He had chosen. This practice of seeking God's will through prayer was foundational to the early church's decision-making process.

Theological Implications

The practice of consulting God first is rooted in the belief that God is omniscient and desires to guide His people. Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs believers to "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." This passage highlights the promise of divine direction for those who seek God wholeheartedly.

Practical Application

For contemporary believers, consulting God first involves prayer, meditation on Scripture, and seeking the counsel of the Holy Spirit. James 1:5 encourages believers, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." This assurance invites Christians to approach God with confidence, trusting in His willingness to provide guidance.

Warnings Against Neglect

The Bible also provides warnings against neglecting to consult God. In Isaiah 30:1-2 , the Lord rebukes those who "carry out plans that are not mine, forming an alliance, but not by my Spirit, heaping sin upon sin." This admonition serves as a cautionary reminder of the consequences of acting independently of God's guidance.

In summary, the biblical mandate to consult God first is a call to prioritize divine wisdom over human understanding, ensuring that believers align their actions with God's will and purpose.