How can we apply "God instructs him" to our decision-making processes today? The Verse in Focus “For his God instructs him and teaches him the proper way.” (Isaiah 28:26) What We See in the Text • God is personally involved in guiding an ordinary farmer’s work. • Instruction comes directly from God—not guesswork, not mere tradition. • The guidance is specific (“the proper way”), proving that divine wisdom addresses practical details. Timeless Truth: God Still Instructs • God’s character does not change (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8). • The same Lord who coached the farmer stands ready to lead His people today (Psalm 32:8). • Because Scripture is living and active (Hebrews 4:12), it continues to speak authoritatively into modern decisions. Practical Steps to Let God Instruct Our Decisions 1. Immerse in Scripture – Let God’s revealed Word set the boundaries for every choice (Psalm 119:105). – Read with intent to obey, not merely to gather information (James 1:22). 2. Pray for Specific Direction – Ask for wisdom, confident He gives generously (James 1:5). – Listen in silence; the Spirit often impresses guidance when hearts are still (1 Kings 19:12). 3. Weigh Options by Biblical Principles – Does it honor Christ? (Colossians 3:17) – Does it exhibit love for God and neighbor? (Matthew 22:37-39) – Does it compromise holiness? (1 Peter 1:15-16) 4. Seek God-honoring Counsel – “In an abundance of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14) – Choose advisors who themselves submit to Scripture. 5. Watch for Providential Confirmations – God opens and closes doors (Revelation 3:7). – Circumstances, timing, and resources can affirm His inward prompting (Acts 16:6-10). 6. Obey Promptly – Delayed obedience often breeds doubt (Psalm 119:60). – Act on the light already given; further light follows obedience (John 7:17). Biblical Snapshots of Divine Instruction • Noah received precise building specs for the ark (Genesis 6:14-16). • David inquired of the Lord before battle and got strategy (2 Samuel 5:23-25). • Joseph followed angelic dreams that safeguarded Jesus (Matthew 2:13-15). • Paul was redirected from Asia to Macedonia through a vision (Acts 16:9-10). Safeguards to Recognizing God’s Voice • God’s guidance never contradicts His written Word (Galatians 1:8). • The Spirit fosters peace, not confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33; Philippians 4:6-7). • Fruit of obedience aligns with righteousness (Matthew 7:16-18). Encouragement for Daily Life Every decision—large or small—matters to the Lord who “instructs and teaches” His people. Approach choices expectantly, confident that the same God who guided an ancient farmer delights to direct your steps today (Proverbs 3:5-6). |
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