Consulting God is a practice deeply rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition, reflecting a believer's desire to seek divine guidance, wisdom, and direction in various aspects of life. This practice is evident throughout the Bible, where individuals and communities turn to God for counsel in decision-making, understanding His will, and navigating life's challenges.

Old Testament Examples

In the Old Testament, consulting God was a common practice among the patriarchs, prophets, and kings of Israel. One of the earliest examples is found in Genesis, where Abraham's servant seeks God's guidance in finding a wife for Isaac. The servant prays, "O LORD, God of my master Abraham, please grant me success today, and show kindness to my master Abraham" (Genesis 24:12). This act of seeking divine intervention underscores the importance of consulting God in significant life decisions.

The Israelites frequently consulted God through the Urim and Thummim, sacred lots used by the high priest to discern God's will. In 1 Samuel 28:6, it is noted, "He inquired of the LORD, but the LORD did not answer him by dreams or Urim or prophets" . This highlights the established methods of seeking God's guidance during that period.

King David is another prominent figure who consistently sought God's counsel. Before engaging in battle, David would inquire of the Lord, as seen in 1 Samuel 23:2, "So David inquired of the LORD, 'Shall I go and attack these Philistines?' And the LORD said to David, 'Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah'" . David's reliance on divine guidance exemplifies the practice of consulting God in leadership and warfare.

Prophetic Guidance

Prophets played a crucial role in conveying God's guidance to His people. They served as intermediaries, delivering messages from God and providing counsel. In 2 Kings 3:11, Jehoshaphat seeks a prophet to inquire of the Lord, saying, "Is there no prophet of the LORD here, through whom we may inquire of the LORD?" . This reliance on prophetic insight underscores the importance of consulting God through His appointed messengers.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the practice of consulting God continues, with an emphasis on prayer and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Jesus Himself modeled this practice, often withdrawing to solitary places to pray and seek the Father's will. In Luke 6:12-13, before choosing His twelve apostles, Jesus "went out to the mountain to pray, and He spent the night in prayer to God. When daylight came, He called His disciples to Him and chose twelve of them, whom He also designated as apostles" .

The early church also exemplified consulting God through prayer and fasting. In Acts 13:2-3, the church in Antioch sought God's direction, "While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' So after they had fasted and prayed, they laid their hands on them and sent them off" . This passage highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding the church's mission and decisions.

Prayer and the Holy Spirit

Prayer is a primary means of consulting God, allowing believers to communicate with Him and seek His guidance. The Apostle Paul encourages believers to "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17), emphasizing the importance of continual communication with God.

The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in guiding believers, as Jesus promised in John 16:13, "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth" . The Spirit's indwelling presence provides believers with wisdom and discernment, enabling them to understand and follow God's will.

Conclusion

Consulting God is a foundational aspect of the Christian faith, reflecting a deep reliance on divine wisdom and guidance. Through prayer, the study of Scripture, and the leading of the Holy Spirit, believers are equipped to seek and discern God's will in their lives.