1. First seek the counsel of the Lord (1-4)

At first, Jehoshaphat did not compromise with northern Israel (17:1). But after he had acquired great wealth and honor, he decided that he could bring peace, and eventually unity to Israel. So he arranged for his son to marry the daughter of Ahab. This marriage did not bring unity; it almost led to the destruction of Judah. When Jehoshaphat came home from a visit with Ahab, God's servant rebuked him for loving those who hate God (19:1-3). Jehoshaphat thought he could handle it. When Ahab invited him to join him in battle, Jehoshaphat insisted that they first seek the Lord's counsel.

2. Is there not a prophet of the Lord? (5-11)

Ahab's powerful wife, Jezebel, was a Baal worshiper, so the 400 prophets he called were probably prophets of Baal. They all advised him to 'Go and win.' But Jehoshaphat wasn't satisfied. He insisted on asking a prophet of the Lord. Ahab did not want to ask Micaiah because Micaiah always told him what he didn't want to hear.

Application: Lord, keep me from presumptuous pride. Help me to love those who love you.
One Word: Marriage doesn't solve problems