What steps can we take to ensure our actions align with God's will? Passage snapshot “Abner was very angry over Ish-bosheth’s accusation and said, ‘Am I a dog’s head that belongs to Judah? This day I keep showing loyalty to the house of your father Saul—to his brothers and his friends—and I have not delivered you into the hand of David; yet this day you charge me with guilt concerning a woman.’” (2 Samuel 3:8) Why this moment matters • God had already declared David king (1 Samuel 16:1, 13). • Abner’s loyalty to Saul’s house now conflicts with God’s revealed choice. • His angry self-defense exposes a heart more focused on reputation than obedience. Step 1 Submit to God’s revealed plan • Measure every loyalty—family, tradition, personal ambition—against Scripture. • When God’s Word speaks clearly, adjust course immediately. (Psalm 119:105; Luke 11:28) Step 2 Check the tone of your heart • Abner’s fury shows pride. “Man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness of God.” (James 1:20) • Pause when emotions surge; ask the Spirit to rule your response. (Galatians 5:22-23) Step 3 Test motives under the light of Scripture • God’s Word “judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12) • Honestly answer: Am I protecting my image, or pursuing God’s will? Step 4 Align with God-appointed leadership • Abner resisted David, the anointed king. Resisting God’s order breeds unrest. (Romans 13:1) • Seek, recognize, and support leadership that follows biblical truth. Step 5 Walk humbly, not defensively • “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (1 Peter 5:5) • Replace self-justification with confession and willingness to change. Practical daily habits • Daily Scripture reading to renew the mind. (Romans 12:2) • Prayerful surrender of plans before acting. (Proverbs 3:5-6) • Invite trusted believers to speak truth into blind spots. (Proverbs 27:17) • Evaluate decisions by their conformity to Christ’s character. (1 John 2:6) • Obey promptly, even when costly; delayed obedience is disobedience. (James 4:17) Summary Choosing God’s will over self-will Abner’s outburst warns us: zeal, loyalty, and strong feelings can still miss God’s direction. Our safeguard is a humble, Scripture-shaped heart that consistently tests motives, submits to God’s revealed plan, and acts in step with the Spirit. |
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