How can we discern God's will in our lives, as seen in this verse? Setting the Scene “ ‘And the LORD said, “Who will entice Ahab king of Israel to go up and fall at Ramoth-gilead?” One suggested this, and another that.’ ” (2 Chronicles 18:19) In this heavenly council, God plainly reveals His purpose and the means He will use. Because Scripture records this event with complete accuracy, we can draw clear principles for recognizing His direction in our own decisions. Key Truth: God’s Sovereign Will Is Active • The Lord is not passive; He is actively guiding history and individual lives (Proverbs 16:9; Ephesians 1:11). • When He determines a course—here, Ahab’s downfall—it will come to pass (Isaiah 46:9-10). • Our task is to discern, align with, and obey what He has revealed. Principle 1: Start With Scripture—His Revealed Will • God’s primary, unmistakable voice is His written Word (Psalm 119:105). • Anything contrary to Scripture is never His will (Galatians 1:8). • Regular reading anchors us; when choices arise, we compare them with clear commands and timeless principles. Principle 2: Seek Godly Counsel • Ahab rejected the faithful prophet Micaiah and listened to flattering voices (2 Chronicles 18:7-17). • Wise believers surround themselves with counselors who fear God and honor Scripture (Proverbs 11:14). • When trusted, Word-saturated friends confirm or caution, pay attention. Principle 3: Test Every Spirit • A lying spirit persuaded Ahab’s prophets (v. 21). Spiritual experiences, impressions, or “prophetic” words must be tested (1 John 4:1). • Ask: – Does this align with the Bible? – Does it exalt Christ (John 16:14)? – Does it bear righteous fruit (Matthew 7:16-18)? Principle 4: Observe Providence Without Forcing Doors • God opened a path that matched His declared intention; circumstances fell in line. • Watch for doors God opens naturally (Revelation 3:8), but avoid manipulating situations to get what we want (James 4:13-16). Principle 5: Align Motives With God’s Character • Ahab’s motive was self-preservation; God exposed it and judged it. • Right decisions flow from a heart seeking God’s glory above personal gain (1 Corinthians 10:31). • Confess selfish motives; ask God to purify desires (Psalm 139:23-24). Putting It Into Practice 1. Saturate your mind with daily Scripture reading. 2. Journal significant verses that speak to your situation. 3. Invite mature believers to speak candidly into your decision. 4. Pray for discernment, then evaluate impressions by the five principles above. 5. Move forward in faith when the Word, godly counsel, providence, and pure motives converge. Helpful Verses to Review This Week • Romans 12:2 — Renewed minds discern God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will. • Psalm 32:8 — God promises to instruct and counsel us. • James 1:5 — He gives wisdom generously to those who ask in faith. • Proverbs 3:5-6 — Trusting Him wholeheartedly brings straight paths. |
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