BAD ALLIANCES

"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.