How can Ephesians 5:10 guide our decisions in challenging situations? Anchoring in Ephesians 5:10 “and test and prove what pleases the Lord.” What the Verse Calls Us To • Ongoing examination: keep “testing and proving,” not a one-time choice. • Single standard: the final measure is always “what pleases the Lord,” not what feels safe, popular, or convenient. • Active obedience: once discerned, we do it—no neutrality. Key Principles for Hard Decisions • Scripture first—God has already spoken. • Spirit-led discernment—He illumines the Word (John 16:13). • Sanctified reasoning—use renewed minds (Romans 12:2). • Community counsel—wise believers confirm truth (Proverbs 11:14). • Courageous action—choose obedience even when costly (Acts 5:29). Step-By-Step Process When the Pressure Is On 1. Search the Word – Look for direct commands or clear principles related to the issue. – Psalm 19:7-8 shows Scripture “enlightens the eyes.” 2. Pray for Illumination – James 1:5 promises wisdom without reproach. 3. Identify Motives – Ask, “Does this come from love for God and neighbor?” (Matthew 22:37-39). 4. Evaluate Outcomes – Will this choice advance holiness, truth, justice, and love? (Micah 6:8). 5. Seek God-fearing Counsel – “In an abundance of counselors there is victory.” (Proverbs 24:6). 6. Decide in Faith – “Everything that does not come from faith is sin.” (Romans 14:23). 7. Act with Integrity – Keep your word, accept consequences, trust God with results. Scriptural Illustrations • Daniel 1:8-17—Daniel “resolved” to honor God, tested the diet, and God vindicated him. • Acts 4:19-20—Peter and John weighed the command of men against pleasing the Lord, chose obedience, and the church grew. • Genesis 39:7-12—Joseph fled temptation, valuing God’s approval over immediate relief. Benefits of Living This Way • Clear conscience (2 Corinthians 1:12). • Growing likeness to Christ (Ephesians 5:1-2). • Powerful witness to the world (Matthew 5:16). • Confidence at Christ’s return (1 John 2:28). Encouragement for the Road Ahead God never asks us to navigate challenges alone. By the Word, the Spirit, and the fellowship of believers, we can “test and prove what pleases the Lord” and walk in steady, joy-filled obedience, no matter how complex the situation. |
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