How can we discern God's calling in our lives like Saul's followers did? A moment at Gibeah—1 Samuel 10:26 “Saul also went to his home in Gibeah, and the men of valor whose hearts God had touched went with him.” What we learn from these men • They recognized God’s new direction for Israel and responded immediately. • Their loyalty was not to charisma or popularity but to the Lord’s evident hand. • Their courage flowed from hearts God had already prepared. How God still “touches hearts” today • Through His Word—“All Scripture is God-breathed…” (2 Timothy 3:16). • By His Spirit—“The Spirit said, ‘Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul…’ ” (Acts 13:2). • In providential circumstances He arranges (Philippians 2:13). • Through godly counsel and confirmation (Proverbs 15:22). Practical steps for discerning God’s call 1. Soak in Scripture daily – God’s specific leading never contradicts His written Word (Psalm 119:105). 2. Cultivate a responsive heart – “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts” (Hebrews 3:15). 3. Pray for clarity and surrender personal agendas – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart…He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6). 4. Listen for the Shepherd’s voice – “My sheep hear My voice; I know them, and they follow Me” (John 10:27). 5. Seek confirmation – “Test all things; hold fast to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:19-21). 6. Walk in obedience to the next right step – Light often comes one step at a time, as with Abraham (Genesis 12:1). Warning signs we’re following the wrong call • Conflict with clear biblical commands. • Carnal motives: pride, greed, fear of man (1 Samuel 16:7). • Lack of peace affirmed by the Spirit (Colossians 3:15). • Wise believers voice caution, not affirmation. Living today as “men of valor” • Stay close to God’s anointed King—Jesus. • Let Scripture form convictions before circumstances press them. • Be ready to move when God stirs your heart, even if the assignment seems unclear. • Encourage others who sense the same leading; God often calls people into community, not isolation. Like Saul’s early supporters, we discern God’s calling when our hearts have already been tenderized by His Word and Spirit. Once He touches the heart, the next step is simple: go with the King. |
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