What steps can we take to ensure our decisions align with God's will? Solomon’s Return and the Lesson Behind It “2 Chronicles 1:13: ‘So Solomon went to Jerusalem from the high place at Gibeon before the Tent of Meeting, and he reigned over Israel.’ ” Why this matters Solomon had just asked God for wisdom (vv. 7–12). Verse 13 shows him heading back to Jerusalem to exercise that God-given wisdom. His pattern becomes a roadmap for aligning our decisions with God’s will. Step 1 – Begin with Worship and Reverence • Solomon first met God “at the high place at Gibeon before the Tent of Meeting.” • Aligning decisions with God starts by entering His presence—worship redirects our focus. • Psalm 95:6: “Come, let us bow down in worship; let us kneel before the LORD our Maker.” Step 2 – Ask Specifically for Wisdom • Solomon didn’t ask for riches or power; he asked for discernment (2 Chronicles 1:10). • James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God… and it will be given to him.” • Pray for clarity, not just outcomes. God delights to give guidance when we seek His wisdom first. Step 3 – Evaluate Every Option by Scripture • God’s reply hinged on Solomon’s heart aligning with covenant truth. • Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” • Test each choice: – Does it violate or fulfill clear biblical commands? – Does it reflect the character of Christ? – Does it promote righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit? (Romans 14:17) Step 4 – Surrender Desires to God’s Sovereignty • Solomon “went to Jerusalem… and he reigned.” He stepped into God’s plan, not his own agenda. • Proverbs 3:5–6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” • Genuine surrender says, “Lord, override me if I’m wrong.” Step 5 – Listen for Inner Confirmation and External Counsel • God’s gift of wisdom produced peace in Solomon’s kingdom at first (1 Kings 4:20-25). • Colossians 3:15: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” • Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Wise, godly voices and an internal sense of peace often confirm the Spirit’s leading. Step 6 – Obey Promptly and Completely • Solomon didn’t linger at Gibeon; he returned and “reigned over Israel.” • John 13:17: “If you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” • Delay or partial obedience muddies discernment; full obedience brings clarity. Putting It All Together 1. Start every decision process in worship. 2. Pray for God’s wisdom above all. 3. Measure options against Scripture. 4. Surrender personal preferences. 5. Seek Spirit-given peace and wise counsel. 6. Act quickly and thoroughly once God’s direction is clear. Following Solomon’s pattern turns everyday choices into opportunities to walk squarely in God’s will. |
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