How does seeking God's will, as in Judges 1:1, strengthen our faith? The scene in Judges 1:1 “After the death of Joshua, the Israelites asked the LORD, ‘Who will be the first to go up and fight for us against the Canaanites?’” (Judges 1:1) • Israel stands at a crossroads—leaderless, surrounded by enemies, unsure of the next move. • Instead of rushing ahead, the people pause and “asked the LORD.” • That simple act of inquiry models how seeking God’s will can become the hinge on which faith swings open and grows strong. What it means to “ask the LORD” • More than a tip-of-the-hat prayer; it is intentional dependence. • It acknowledges God’s right to direct every choice (Proverbs 3:5-6). • It expects a real answer because He speaks (John 10:27). How seeking God’s will strengthens faith 1. Establishes trust over self-reliance • “Lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5). • Each time we look to Him first, we practice trusting His character instead of our calculations. 2. Anchors decisions in divine wisdom • “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God… and it will be given” (James 1:5). • Receiving His guidance builds confidence that He is personally involved in our daily affairs. 3. Turns knowledge into experience • When Israel obeyed God’s direction, victories followed (Judges 1:2-4). • Obedience lets us watch promises become reality, moving faith from theory to testimony. 4. Cultivates continual fellowship • “Show me Your ways… teach me Your paths” (Psalm 25:4-5). • The habit of inquiring keeps conversation with God alive and warm, deepening relational closeness. 5. Produces peace amid uncertainty • “Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it” (Psalm 37:5). • Knowing He has spoken settles anxious hearts—even before outcomes are visible. Practical steps for us today • Begin every decision, large or small, with deliberate prayer: “Lord, what do You say?” • Filter options through Scripture; God’s voice never contradicts His written Word. • Wait for clarity—sometimes through Scripture, godly counsel, inner conviction, or circumstances He orchestrates. • Act on what He shows; obedience is the catalyst that turns guidance into growth. • Record answered guidance. Revisiting past leadings reminds us that God’s track record is flawless, fortifying faith for the next step. The takeaway Just as Israel’s first act after Joshua’s death was to seek the Lord’s direction, our first reflex in every season should be the same. Every time we ask, listen, and obey, faith muscles stretch, strengthen, and prepare us for the battles ahead. |
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