What steps can we take to be more receptive to God's direction today? Setting the Scene “ When I returned to Jerusalem and was praying at the temple, I fell into a trance ” (Acts 22:17). Paul’s simple statement offers a roadmap: he returned, prayed, and became receptive to a specific word from the Lord. Each element still guides us today. Step 1: Return and Recentre • Make an intentional turn away from the noise toward the Lord, just as Paul returned to Jerusalem. • Psalm 62:5: “Find rest, O my soul, in God alone.” Re-orient the heart first; guidance follows. Step 2: Honor Sacred Spaces • Paul chose the temple—an environment set apart for worship. • While God hears anywhere, seek settings that foster reverence: a quiet room, a church sanctuary, a solitary walk. • Exodus 33:7 shows Moses pitching the tent of meeting outside the camp; he physically moved to meet with God. Step 3: Engage in Focused Prayer • Paul “was praying.” Prayer is dialogue, not monologue. • Philippians 4:6-7 promises peace that guards the heart as we present requests. • Ask specifically for direction (James 1:5) and thank God in advance for clarity. Step 4: Embrace Silence and Stillness • God’s voice often follows quiet, not hurry. • 1 Kings 19:12 records the “gentle whisper”; Psalm 46:10 commands, “Be still, and know that I am God.” • Schedule technology-free windows; let the mind settle so the Spirit’s prompting isn’t drowned out. Step 5: Immerse in Scripture • God never contradicts His written Word. • Colossians 3:16: “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you.” • Read expectantly, asking, “What command, warning, or promise lines up with my current decision?” Step 6: Expect and Acknowledge God’s Voice • Jesus said, “My sheep listen to My voice” (John 10:27). Approach with confidence that He still speaks. • Keep a journal to note impressions, verses, and providential circumstances; patterns emerge that confirm direction. Step 7: Obey Promptly • Acts 26:19 shows Paul later declaring, “I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision.” • Guidance grows clearer to hearts that act on the light already given (John 7:17). • Postponed obedience often clouds discernment; swift obedience sharpens it. Living the Pattern Today Return, find a reverent space, pray deliberately, cultivate silence, saturate the mind with Scripture, listen in faith, and respond without delay. Following Paul’s example in Acts 22:17 positions us to receive God’s direction with clarity and confidence. |
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