What steps can we take to ensure our actions align with God's true will? Setting the Scene “Have I now come up without the LORD against this place to destroy it? The LORD said to me, ‘Go up against this land and destroy it.’” (2 Kings 18:25) Rabshakeh’s boast sounded convincing: he claimed divine authorization for invading Judah. Yet one chapter later, God, through Isaiah, exposed the lie and promised deliverance (2 Kings 19:6-7). The episode warns us how easily God’s will can be misrepresented—and how vital it is to ensure our own actions truly align with Him. Recognizing the Danger of False Claims • Scripture records many who invoked God’s name wrongly—false prophets (Jeremiah 23:30-32), deceitful dreams (Deuteronomy 13:1-3), and even demonic spirits (1 John 4:1). • The unchanging test: “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20). • Because God’s Word is accurate, literal, and sufficient, it remains the final standard (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Essential Steps for Discerning God’s Will 1. Ground everything in clear Scripture. – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). – God never guides us to contradict what He has already spoken. 2. Test every impression, claim, or counsel. – “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits” (1 John 4:1). – Compare teaching, circumstances, and personal leadings with the whole counsel of God. 3. Seek God prayerfully and expectantly. – “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously” (James 1:5). – Prayer aligns the heart with the Lord so motives are purified before decisions are made. 4. Submit to wise, godly counsel. – “Where there is no guidance, the people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is victory” (Proverbs 11:14). – Mature believers help expose blind spots and confirm biblical direction. 5. Examine the fruit. – “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…” (Galatians 5:22-23). – Genuine leading of God produces spiritual fruit, not confusion, compromise, or pride. 6. Walk in humble obedience to revealed commands. – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… in all your ways acknowledge Him” (Proverbs 3:5-6). – God clarifies further steps for those already obeying what He has plainly revealed. Living Out These Steps • Spend consistent time in Scripture so counterfeit guidance stands out immediately. • Weigh every decision—large or small—against God’s character and commands. • Invite trusted believers to speak into plans before acting. • Move forward only when biblical principles, prayer, counsel, and inner conviction align. • Expect the Spirit’s fruit and God-honoring results; course-correct quickly if outcomes contradict His nature. Holding firmly to God’s Word and these practices keeps us from being swayed by modern “Rabshakehs.” His true will becomes clear, and our actions bring Him honor. |
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