How can we ensure we are aligned with God's will in our decisions? Watching Saul’s Misstep 1 Samuel 13:13: “You have acted foolishly,” Samuel said. “You have not kept the command that the LORD your God gave you; if you had, the LORD would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time.” Saul’s hasty sacrifice shows that a single compromised choice can derail God’s intended blessing. His story paints a clear picture of what alignment with God’s will requires—and what happens when we ignore it. Timeless principles for decision-making • Know God’s explicit commands before acting. • Obey promptly rather than improvising under pressure. • Wait for God’s timing instead of forcing outcomes. • Fear God more than people or circumstances. • Value long-term faithfulness over short-term relief. Practices that keep us on course Daily Scripture intake • Psalm 119:105—“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” • Deuteronomy 17:19-20—God required Israel’s kings to read the Law daily so they “may learn to fear the LORD … and not turn aside.” Prayerful dependence • Proverbs 3:5-6—Trusting the Lord with all our heart allows Him to “make straight” our paths. • James 1:5—He “gives generously” the wisdom we lack. Spirit-led patience • Galatians 5:25—“Since we live by the Spirit, let us walk in step with the Spirit.” Waiting aligns our pace with His. Accountability and counsel • Proverbs 15:22—Plans established with many counselors stand firm. • Hebrews 13:17—Healthy submission to godly leaders safeguards our walk. Heart devotion • John 14:15—“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” Love fuels obedience far better than fear alone. Living the lesson Saul’s failure cautions against impulse; steady obedience secures God’s favor. By anchoring every decision to Scripture, seeking wisdom in prayer, listening to the Spirit, and surrounding ourselves with godly counsel, we place ourselves in the current of God’s will and keep from drifting into folly. |
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