How can we ensure our decisions align with God's will today? Saul’s Misstep: A Warning from 1 Samuel 28:14 “‘What does he look like?’ asked Saul. ‘An old man is coming up,’ she replied, ‘and he is wearing a robe.’ Then Saul knew that it was Samuel, and he bowed face down in reverence.” (1 Samuel 28:14) • Saul had banished mediums (vv.3,9) yet, in fear, returned to them. • His choice shows how quickly human panic overrides prior obedience when God’s answer seems delayed. • The scene reminds us that abandoning God’s prescribed means of guidance opens doors to confusion, deception, and judgment (vv.16-19). Why Consulting Darkness Fails • God had already spoken through Samuel—clear, authoritative revelation Saul ignored (1 Samuel 15:22-23). • Engaging forbidden sources contradicted God’s law (Leviticus 19:31; Deuteronomy 18:10-12). • Instead of fresh direction, Saul received confirmation of judgment already pronounced. Lesson: when we bypass God’s voice, we still hear—just not what we hoped, and never with His blessing. Choosing the Better Path: Principles for Discerning God’s Will 1. Anchor every decision in Scripture – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) – God’s recorded commands set boundaries; His promises offer guidance within them. 2. Cultivate daily dependence through prayer – “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God… and it will be given.” (James 1:5) – Prayer aligns the heart, quiets panic, and invites divine clarity. 3. Submit the mind to renewal – “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2) – Regular intake of truth re-calibrates instincts away from impulse toward obedience. 4. Listen for the Spirit’s prompting – “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27) – The Spirit never contradicts Scripture; He personalizes its application. 5. Weigh counsel from mature believers – “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22) – God often confirms direction through trusted, Scripture-saturated voices. 6. Check motives and outcomes – “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31) – Ask: Does this choice honor Christ, serve others, and foster holiness? Putting It into Practice: Everyday Decision-Making • Career moves: compare options with biblical priorities—integrity, family stewardship, kingdom impact. • Relationships: measure compatibility by shared faith and mutual pursuit of righteousness (2 Corinthians 6:14). • Finances: spend and give under the lordship of Christ, avoiding debt-driven pressure (Proverbs 22:7). • Time management: schedule around worship, fellowship, and service so choices flow from first-love devotion (Matthew 6:33). Encouragement for the Journey Saul’s tragic detour underscores the cost of scrambling for answers outside God’s revealed will. Yet Scripture, prayer, the Spirit, and godly counsel equip us today to walk confidently in paths of blessing. Stay near the Shepherd, heed His word, and each decision becomes another step aligned with His perfect plan. |
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