What role does seeking God's will play in decision-making, according to 1 Samuel 14? The Moment That Reveals the Principle 1 Samuel 14:36—“Then Saul said, ‘Let us go down after the Philistines by night and plunder them until dawn; let us not leave one of them alive.’ ‘Do whatever seems good to you,’ the troops replied. But the priest said, ‘Let us consult God here.’” Key Observations from the Verse • Saul’s impulse: charge ahead, trusting strategy and momentum. • The troops’ agreement: human consensus apart from divine counsel. • The priest’s interjection: a timely reminder that the battle belongs to the Lord (cf. 1 Samuel 17:47). • Immediate application: before decisions—big or small—pause to ask, “Have we sought the Lord’s mind?” Why Seeking God’s Will Matters • Aligns us with God’s purposes, not merely our own (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Guards us from flesh-driven mistakes—Saul had just issued a rash oath that nearly cost Jonathan his life (1 Samuel 14:24-45). • Invites divine favor and power (Psalm 32:8; Isaiah 30:21). • Demonstrates humble dependence, the posture God honors (James 4:6-8). Contrast: Jonathan vs. Saul Jonathan (1 Samuel 14:6-10) • Seeks a sign from God before attacking. • Trusts, “Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving.” • Result: victory, encouragement for Israel. Saul (1 Samuel 14:19, 24, 36) • Starts to inquire of God, then pulls back in impatience. • Makes impulsive decrees. • Creates turmoil and nearly executes his own son. Steps for God-Centered Decision-Making 1. Pause—quiet the rush of events (Psalm 46:10). 2. Pray—ask specifically for direction (James 1:5). 3. Search Scripture—God’s revealed will never contradicts His written Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17). 4. Seek godly counsel—the priestly reminder in 14:36 parallels Proverbs 15:22. 5. Wait for clarity—God’s timing refines motives (Psalm 27:14). 6. Obey promptly—once guidance is clear, move forward in faith (John 2:5). Consequences of Ignoring God’s Will • Confusion and aborted plans (1 Samuel 14:19). • Strained relationships—Saul vs. Jonathan (14:43-45). • Loss of spiritual authority—eventually costing Saul the kingdom (1 Samuel 15:23). Encouragement for Today When decisions press, let the priest’s words echo in our hearts: “Let us consult God here.” The same God who guided Israel delights to guide His people now—giving wisdom, preserving from error, and leading into victory that glorifies Him. |
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