In what ways can we ensure our actions align with God's will today? Setting the Scene: A Cautionary Verse “Two hundred men from Jerusalem accompanied Absalom. They had been invited as guests and went innocently, for they were unaware of the whole situation.” (2 Samuel 15:11) Absalom’s plot advanced because good men acted without discernment. Their ignorance did not excuse the damage that followed. The verse presses us to ask: How can we keep from drifting into choices that run counter to God’s will? Recognize the Danger of Spiritual Unawareness • Being “unaware” left the guests exposed to sin’s agenda. • Ephesians 5:15-17 reminds us: “Pay careful attention… understand what the Lord’s will is.” • Awareness grows as we habitually examine motives, circumstances, and influences in the light of Scripture. Anchor Every Decision in God’s Word • Psalm 119:105 — “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 — Scripture equips us “for every good work,” including daily choices. Practical steps: – Before acting, seek a clear biblical principle or command that addresses the situation. – When unsure, look for biblical patterns (e.g., honesty, purity, humility, stewardship) that speak to similar circumstances. – Resist any counsel or opportunity that contradicts plainly stated truth. Stay Tuned to the Shepherd’s Voice • John 10:27 — “My sheep listen to My voice… and they follow Me.” • James 1:5 — God promises wisdom when we ask. Cultivate listening by: – Setting aside uninterrupted time in the Word daily. – Pausing in prayer before major and minor decisions alike. – Expecting the Spirit to recall Scripture that confirms or checks your plans (John 14:26). Lean on God-Fearing Counsel • Proverbs 11:14 — “With many advisers there is deliverance.” Qualities of trustworthy advisers: – They submit to Scripture rather than personal preference. – They have a proven track record of obedience. – They are willing to challenge you in love, not merely agree. Test Every Influence • 1 John 4:1 — “Test the spirits.” • The 200 men trusted Absalom’s invitation without testing motives. Guard against: – Charismatic personalities who downplay biblical authority. – Opportunities that promise quick gain but require moral compromise. – Group pressure that replaces personal conviction. Keep a Soft, Repentant Heart • Psalm 139:23-24 — “Search me, O God... lead me in the way everlasting.” • Regular confession clears the fog pride creates, making God’s directive voice easier to discern. Live a Romans 12:2 Lifestyle “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.” Daily renewal involves: – Filtering media, conversations, and desires through gospel truth. – Memorizing Scripture to re-calibrate thoughts. – Choosing practices that form Christlike habits (generosity, service, worship). Putting It All Together To ensure our actions align with God’s will: 1. Stay alert; refuse passive participation. 2. Search the Scriptures before you step. 3. Listen for the Shepherd’s voice in prayer. 4. Invite correction from godly counselors. 5. Test influences; avoid hidden agendas. 6. Keep short accounts with God through repentance. 7. Let continual mind-renewal shape every choice. The 200 men of 2 Samuel 15:11 teach us that innocence without discernment is dangerous. By anchoring ourselves in God’s Word, prayer, and wise counsel, we move from unaware guests in someone else’s scheme to intentional servants who walk confidently in the center of the Lord’s will. |
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