Bad Alliances by Os Hillman
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By Os Hillman
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"Woe
to the obstinate children," declares the Lord, "to those who carry
out plans that are not Mine, forming an alliance, but not by My Spirit, heaping
sin upon sin; who go down to Egypt without consulting Me; who look for help to
Pharaoh's protection, to Egypt's shade for refuge." Isaiah 30:1-2
Have you ever entered a business
relationship with someone you knew you were not supposed to? Throughout the
history of Israel, the people were called to come out of an old way of life.
Egypt represented that old way; when things got tough, the Israelites reverted
to what was comfortable. They always knew they could take a trip to Egypt and
find what they lacked. Perhaps this was their reasoning: "If we can't get
it accomplished under the new way, why not go back to the way we used to do it?
At least we know we can get it there."
When God calls us into a walk of
faith, we can expect to be tested in this walk. If we enter into alliances that
God has not ordained, it will only bring heartache. Such was the case for Israel.
"But Pharaoh's protection will be to your shame, Egypt's
shade will bring you disgrace." (Is.
30:3)
Beware what you perceive as an
alliance that may advance your business. It may actually bring you great
distress if God has not directed you to align it. Ask yourself what the motive
is behind this possible alliance. Make sure that it is not based on fear or a
quick fix. Get confirmation that God is leading you to make such an alliance.
Then you will not end up in the way of Israel, experiencing shame and disgrace.
Os Hillman
By permission only. To learn more about Os Hillman, go to: www.marketplaceleaders.org.
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http://www.identitynetwork.net/Articles-?blogid=2093&url=10&view=post&articleid=206343&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=Os%20Hillman&fldTopic=0
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