What can we learn about seeking guidance from God versus other sources? Scene and Scripture “But Saul swore to her by the LORD, ‘As surely as the LORD lives, no punishment will come upon you for this.’” Why Saul’s Oath Matters • Saul invokes the LORD’s name to protect a medium—someone God had expressly forbidden (Leviticus 19:31; Deuteronomy 18:10–12). • He tries to gain supernatural insight while bypassing the God who alone grants true guidance. • The king’s words reveal a heart willing to use religious language while disobeying the very God he names. Clear Lessons on Seeking Guidance • God alone is the legitimate source of direction (Psalm 32:8; Proverbs 3:5-6). • When God seems silent, the answer is never to turn to forbidden or rival voices (1 Samuel 28:6; Isaiah 8:19-20). • Religious talk does not sanctify disobedience; swearing “by the LORD” while breaking His command deepens guilt (Exodus 20:7). • The heart that will not submit to God’s revealed will grows vulnerable to deception (2 Thessalonians 2:10-11). The Danger of Other Sources • Mediums, spiritists, horoscopes, occult practices – Specifically condemned: Leviticus 20:6, 27; Deuteronomy 18:10-13 – Branded as abominations because they replace trust in the living God with counterfeit powers. • Human schemes and self-reliance – King Asa sought physicians, not the LORD, and suffered (2 Chronicles 16:12). • Even well-intended advice that contradicts Scripture carries harm (Psalm 1:1; Colossians 2:8). Consequences Recorded in Scripture • Immediate: spiritual darkness, fear, and confusion (1 Samuel 28:5, 20). • Ultimate: Saul’s death and downfall—summarized in 1 Chronicles 10:13-14, “Saul died for his unfaithfulness… he consulted a medium for guidance, and did not inquire of the LORD.” • God’s judgment underscores that seeking guidance from illegitimate sources is not a minor misstep but rebellion (Isaiah 30:1-3). Where True Guidance Comes From • Scripture—our lamp and light (Psalm 119:105; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Prayer—asking in faith with a surrendered heart (James 1:5-6). • The Holy Spirit—leading, prompting, illuminating truth (John 16:13; Romans 8:14). • God-honoring counsel—voices anchored in the Word (Proverbs 11:14; 15:22). Practical Takeaways • Refuse every avenue God forbids, even when answers feel urgent. • Examine motives: desire to obey must precede desire to know. • Run first—and only—to the Lord for direction; His silence calls for deeper repentance and waiting, not alternative sources. • Saturate mind and heart with Scripture so counterfeit guidance is instantly exposed. • Trust that God’s wisdom is both sufficient and timely; He never withholds what leads to life (Psalm 84:11; Romans 8:32). |
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