How can we ensure our decisions align with God's will today? Setting the Scene in 2 Chronicles 30:4 “The proposal pleased the king and the whole assembly.” Hezekiah’s plan to celebrate Passover in the second month—though unusual—was embraced because it lined up with God’s revealed purposes, was confirmed by unified counsel, and stirred wholehearted agreement before the Lord. Core Principles for Aligned Decision-Making - God’s will is already revealed in His Word; decisions must never contradict Scripture. - God often affirms His direction through the united, Spirit-led agreement of His people. - Inner peace that squares with the Word is a confirming sign, not the originating guide. Scripture Threads That Illuminate the Path - Proverbs 3:5-6—“Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” - Psalm 119:105—“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” - James 1:5—“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God… and it will be given to him.” - Romans 12:2—“…be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you can discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.” - Colossians 3:15—“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…” A Practical Checklist Before Deciding 1. Search the Scriptures. - Confirm the matter aligns with explicit biblical commands or clear biblical principles. 2. Pray for Wisdom. - Invite God to illuminate motives, timing, and consequences (James 1:5). 3. Seek God-fearing Counsel. - Share plans with mature believers who revere Scripture (Proverbs 11:14). 4. Evaluate Motives. - Ask whether God’s glory, not personal gain, is the chief aim (1 Corinthians 10:31). 5. Observe Providential Circumstances. - Note open or closed doors that God may use to direct steps (Revelation 3:7-8). 6. Look for Unified Confirmation. - Value the collective peace of spiritually-minded believers, as in 2 Chronicles 30:4 and Acts 15:28. 7. Rest in Christ’s Peace. - Move forward only when inner peace agrees with Scripture and counsel (Colossians 3:15). Guardrails to Stay on Course - Reject any choice that requires moral compromise. - Resist pressure to decide hastily when clarity is lacking (Proverbs 19:2). - Remember God’s sovereignty—obedience is our responsibility; outcomes are His. The Fruit of Decisions Made in God’s Will - Personal assurance rooted in the unchanging Word. - Corporate unity that strengthens the body of Christ. - A clear witness to outsiders of God’s wisdom and goodness. |