Old Testament
1 Kings 22:5
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this moment, Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, shows wisdom by prioritizing guidance from God before making any decisions.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
But Jehoshaphat added, "First, let's inquire of the word of the LORD today."
And Jehoshaphat said unto the king of Israel, Enquire, I pray thee, at the word of the LORD to day.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, shows wisdom by prioritizing guidance from God before making any decisions. He understands that seeking divine insight is crucial, especially when facing significant challenges. Jehoshaphat's request to inquire about the word of the LORD reflects a deep respect for spiritual direction. It highlights the importance of aligning our choices with a higher purpose. By asking for God’s word, he demonstrates a commitment to making informed and righteous decisions. This approach encourages us to pause and seek wisdom beyond our own understanding. In our lives, we often rush into decisions without considering the bigger picture or seeking guidance. Jehoshaphat’s example reminds us that taking time to reflect and seek divine insight can lead to better outcomes. It’s a call to prioritize spiritual wisdom in our daily lives, ensuring that our actions align with our values and beliefs. This moment serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith in decision-making.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Kings 22:5 to your life
Before making important decisions, take a moment to reflect and seek guidance. This could be through prayer, meditation, or consulting trusted mentors. By prioritizing wisdom, you can align your choices with your values and beliefs, leading to more fulfilling outcomes. Remember, it’s okay to pause and seek clarity before acting.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Kings 22:5 mean?
1 Kings 22:5 shows King Jehoshaphat's wisdom in seeking God's guidance before making important decisions. He emphasizes the need for divine insight, highlighting the importance of aligning choices with spiritual direction.
What is the significance of inquiring of the LORD in 1 Kings 22:5?
Inquiring of the LORD signifies a commitment to seeking divine wisdom and guidance. It reflects the understanding that spiritual insight is crucial for making informed and righteous decisions, especially in challenging situations.
What lesson can we learn from Jehoshaphat in 1 Kings 22:5?
Jehoshaphat teaches us the importance of pausing to seek guidance before acting. His example encourages us to reflect and ensure our decisions align with our values and beliefs.
How does 1 Kings 22:5 relate to decision-making?
1 Kings 22:5 illustrates that seeking God's word can lead to better decision-making. It reminds us to prioritize spiritual wisdom, which can help us navigate significant challenges more effectively.

The Book of 1 Kings
1 Kings 1: Solomon Becomes King
As King David is old and frail, his fourth son, Adonijah, makes a bid for the throne. He gathers the support of Joab, David's long-time military commander, and Abiathar the priest, and begins to act as king, complete with a royal procession. However, he does not invite the prophet Nathan, the priest Zadok, Benaiah (the captain of David's personal guard), or his own half-brother, Solomon.
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