In what ways can we seek God's guidance before making decisions like Jonathan? Setting the Scene “Jonathan, however, had not heard his father charge the troops with the oath. So he reached out with the end of the staff in his hand, dipped it into the honeycomb, and lifted it to his mouth. And his eyes brightened.” (1 Samuel 14:27) Jonathan’s small act—tasting honey—turned into a huge talking point because Saul had laid an oath on the army. Jonathan simply hadn’t known. His refreshed eyes remind us how easily we can step into decisions without first pausing to seek the Lord’s direction. Why Seeking Guidance Matters • Decisions that appear harmless can carry unseen spiritual weight. • Seeking God first keeps us from unintended disobedience. • It anchors our hearts in trust rather than impulse. • It prevents unnecessary fallout for ourselves and those we influence, just as Saul’s rash oath burdened Israel. Proven Ways to Seek God’s Guidance • Prayerful asking—openly invite God to speak before acting. • Immersing in Scripture—let His written word shape thinking (Psalm 119:105). • Waiting in silence—quiet moments allow the Spirit’s whisper to surface (Psalm 37:7). • Fasting—heightens spiritual sensitivity and clarifies motives (Acts 13:2-3). • Seeking godly counsel—wise friends confirm or correct (Proverbs 15:22). • Observing providential circumstances—doors God opens or shuts often speak (Revelation 3:7-8). • Checking conscience—Spirit-led conviction brings peace or pause (Colossians 3:15). • Continuous surrender—yielded hearts stay responsive whatever He says (Romans 12:1-2). Scripture Anchors • “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) • “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you.” (Psalm 32:8) • “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5) • “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear this command behind you: ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” (Isaiah 30:21) • David’s pattern: “So David inquired of the LORD, ‘Shall I go and attack these Philistines?’” (1 Samuel 23:2) —a vivid contrast to Saul’s impulsiveness. • Saul’s later attempt: “Saul said, ‘Let us go down after the Philistines by night’… But the priest said, ‘Let us consult God here.’” (1 Samuel 14:36-37). Living It Out Today • Start each day dedicating upcoming choices to God before they arise. • Keep Scripture handy—on phone lock screens or index cards—to recalibrate thinking. • When a quick decision is forced, breathe a short prayer: “Guide me now.” • Invite accountability partners; a texted prayer request can spare a hasty step. • Regularly record answered guidance; past faithfulness fuels future trust. By building these habits, we avoid Jonathan’s unknowing misstep and instead walk consciously under God’s directing hand. |
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