How can we apply Paul's example in Acts 18:21 to our decision-making? Paul’s Simple Yet Powerful Phrase “‘I will come back to you again, if God wills.’ Then he set sail from Ephesus” (Acts 18:21). What Paul Modeled in One Sentence • Recognition that God’s sovereign plan is absolute • Willingness to submit personal desires to that plan • Confidence that the Lord’s will is both knowable and good Why This Matters for Our Decisions • Scripture is clear: “A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps” (Proverbs 16:9). • Planning is wise, yet presumptuous certainty is not (James 4:13-15). • The literal accuracy of these texts calls us to conform our daily choices to the same attitude. Key Attitudes to Cultivate • Humility – admit we do not control tomorrow • Dependence – actively seek God’s direction before, during, and after planning • Flexibility – be ready to adjust when God redirects • Obedience – move forward promptly when He makes His will clear Practical Steps for Decision-Making Today 1. Begin every plan in prayer, asking, “Father, what is Your will here?” (Philippians 4:6-7). 2. Test options against Scripture’s clear commands; God never contradicts Himself (Psalm 119:105). 3. Verbally acknowledge God’s sovereignty: “If the Lord wills…”—not as a slogan, but a settled conviction. 4. Consult mature believers; God often confirms direction through His people (Proverbs 15:22). 5. Proceed with diligence, trusting God to open or close doors (Revelation 3:7). 6. If circumstances change, pivot without resentment, confident His purpose stands (Romans 8:28). 7. Give thanks in every outcome; gratitude keeps the heart soft to further guidance (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Scriptural Echoes of Paul’s Example • “But I will come to you soon, if the Lord is willing” (1 Corinthians 4:19). • “…making request, if by any means now at last I may succeed in coming to you, by the will of God” (Romans 1:10). • “Instead you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that’” (James 4:15). Living It Out Adopting Paul’s “if God wills” posture doesn’t weaken resolve; it anchors determination within divine certainty. Plan boldly, decide wisely, and rest securely—because every choice is ultimately held in the faithful hands of the Lord who never errs. |
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