What other biblical instances show seeking God's guidance after clear instructions? Holding the Question When the Answer Is Clear – Numbers 22:19 “Now please stay here overnight as well. Then I will find out what else the LORD has to tell me.” Balaam already knew God’s “No” about cursing Israel (vv. 12, 18). Yet he stalled, hoping for different marching orders. Scripture shows several similar moments. Another Fleece After a Direct Call – Judges 6:36-40 • God had said plainly, “Go in the strength you have… Have I not sent you?” (v. 14). • Gideon still asked twice for supernatural confirmation with a fleece, reversing the sign the second night. • Each time, the Lord graciously complied, yet the delay revealed Gideon’s hesitation rather than God’s uncertainty. When the Bush Burns but the Mouth Keeps Asking – Exodus 3:1-4:17 • The LORD’s call: “I will send you to Pharaoh” (3:10). • Moses responded with five successive objections: – “Who am I?” (3:11-12) – “What is Your Name?” (3:13-15) – “What if they won’t believe me?” (4:1-9) – “I am slow of speech” (4:10-12) – “Please send someone else” (4:13-17) • Each protest drew fresh assurance or a sign, but God’s directive never changed. Double-Checking the Battlefield Orders – 1 Samuel 23:2-4 • David asked the LORD if he should attack the Philistines at Keilah. God said, “Go and attack” (v. 2). • His men hesitated, so David inquired again; God repeated, “Go down to Keilah, for I will deliver the Philistines into your hand” (v. 4). • The repetition comforted fearful troops, but the original instruction had already been clear. The Pattern We Notice • Clear command → human doubt or fear → second request → same divine answer. • God’s patience shines, yet the pattern warns against spiritual foot-dragging. • Faith grows by obeying known light, not by postponing action for fresh signals. Walking Forward Today • Treasure God’s revealed Word; hesitation often comes from reluctance, not lack of clarity. • If additional guidance seems necessary, make sure it seeks detail, not reversal. • Remember: obedience unlocks the next step; delay rarely produces a different directive. |
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