How can Acts 1:23 inspire us to seek God's will in choices? Setting the Scene in Acts 1:23 “ So they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias.” What the Apostles Actually Did • Took Scripture literally (Psalm 69:25; 109:8) and saw a vacancy that had to be filled • Established clear, biblical qualifications (Acts 1:21-22) • Identified candidates who met those qualifications • Narrowed the field to realistic options—Joseph and Matthias • Placed the final decision in God’s hands through prayer and casting lots (Acts 1:24-26) Lessons About Seeking God’s Will • Start with God’s Word—let Scripture define the need and the boundaries • Evaluate options honestly; remove choices that contradict biblical principles • Involve godly community for confirmation and accountability • Present the remaining options before the Lord, acknowledging His ultimate authority • Pray specifically for God to reveal His choice, trusting His omniscience—“Lord, You know everyone’s heart” (Acts 1:24) • Accept the outcome as God’s perfect will, even if it surprises us Practical Steps for Our Decisions 1. Saturate the process in Scripture (Psalm 119:105) 2. List criteria drawn from the Bible, not personal convenience 3. Seek wise counsel (Proverbs 15:22) 4. Lay out the qualified options before God 5. Ask for wisdom with faith (James 1:5-6) 6. Rest in God’s sovereign control—“The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.” (Proverbs 16:33) Promises That Anchor Our Confidence • Proverbs 3:5-6—God makes paths straight when we trust Him • Psalm 37:5—Commit your way, and He will act • Romans 8:28—He works all things together for the good of those who love Him Encouragement for Everyday Choices Acts 1:23 shows ordinary believers taking concrete, faith-filled steps and then yielding the verdict to God. Follow their pattern: obey revealed truth, do responsible homework, invite spiritual family into the conversation, and finally release the decision to the One who “knows everyone’s heart.” Choices made this way become occasions to witness God’s faithful guidance rather than moments of anxiety. |
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