How can we discern God's guidance in our lives, like Jeroboam's encounter? Setting the Scene – 1 Kings 11:29 “During that time, as Jeroboam went out of Jerusalem, the prophet Ahijah the Shilonite met him on the road. Now Ahijah had wrapped himself in a new cloak, and the two of them were alone in the open field.” Principle 1: God Initiates Guidance • Jeroboam was not searching for a prophet; the prophet found him. • Psalm 139:5 shows the Lord “hem[s] me in behind and before.” He takes the first step. • Expect God to break into ordinary routines with His purposes. Principle 2: God’s Guidance Aligns with His Written Word • Ahijah’s message echoed the covenant promises already revealed to Israel (Deuteronomy 28; 2 Samuel 7). • Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” The Bible is the non-negotiable standard; any “leading” that contradicts Scripture is counterfeit. • 2 Timothy 3:16 reminds us every portion of Scripture is “God-breathed” and useful for training and correction. Let it govern impressions and circumstances. Principle 3: God Often Confirms Through Faithful Messengers • Ahijah’s torn cloak (vv. 30-31) provided a vivid, external confirmation. • Proverbs 11:14 – “Victory is won through many advisers.” • The Spirit may speak through mature believers, sermons, or even unexpected conversations. We weigh them by the Word. Principle 4: Obedience Sustains Ongoing Clarity • Jeroboam initially received clear direction, yet later crafted golden calves (1 Kings 12:28-30), forfeiting further light. • John 14:21 – “Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me.” Continued obedience keeps our spiritual hearing sharp. • Disobedience clouds discernment; repentance restores it (1 John 1:9). Principle 5: Discernment Requires a Humble Heart • God chose a humble laborer (Jeroboam had been “a valiant young man,” 1 Kings 11:28) before pride set in. • James 4:6 – “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” • True guidance is more about surrender than strategy. Practical Steps for Hearing God Today 1. Immerse in Scripture daily; note repeated themes or verses that resonate. 2. Pray for wisdom (James 1:5) and expect God to answer. 3. Listen for the Spirit’s promptings that exalt Christ (John 16:13-14). 4. Seek confirmation through godly counsel and providential circumstances. 5. Act on the light you have; clarity often follows the first step of obedience. 6. Evaluate fruit: guidance from God produces peace (Colossians 3:15) and righteousness (James 3:17). Warnings from Jeroboam’s Later Choices • He substituted convenience for covenant worship, leading Israel astray. • 1 Kings 13:33-34 traces national ruin to ignoring God’s original word. • Guard against reshaping God’s guidance to fit personal comfort. Encouragement for the Journey • God delights to lead His people (Psalm 32:8). • His voice is recognizable: “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27) • Stay in the Word, stay humble, stay obedient—guidance will follow. |
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