How can we discern God's will without resorting to forbidden practices like Saul? Saul’s Dark Detour • 1 Samuel 28 pictures Saul under pressure from the Philistines, cut off from God because he “did not inquire of the LORD” (1 Chronicles 10:14). • Instead of repenting, he turns to a medium—directly violating Deuteronomy 18:10-12. • The result? Terror, confusion, and final judgment. Saul’s tragedy warns us: when we bypass God’s appointed means, we lose the very guidance we crave. Why Forbidden Practices Never Work • Deuteronomy 18:10-12—necromancy, divination, sorcery are “detestable.” • Isaiah 8:19—“Should not a people consult their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?” • Galatians 5:20 lists “sorcery” as a work of the flesh. • Such channels open doors to deception, place us under God’s discipline, and still leave us ignorant of His will. God’s Clear, Safe Pathways for Guidance 1. Scripture • Psalm 119:105—“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” • 2 Timothy 3:16-17—equips “for every good work,” so no situation is left uncovered. 2. Prayerful Dependence • James 1:5—“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God … and it will be given.” • Philippians 4:6-7—prayer brings peace that guards the heart and mind, steering decisions. 3. The Holy Spirit • John 16:13—“When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” • Romans 8:14—those led by the Spirit are God’s children; guidance flows from relationship, not ritual. 4. Godly Counsel • Proverbs 15:22—“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Seek mentors who love Christ and know Scripture; avoid voices that contradict God’s Word. 5. Providence and Circumstances • Revelation 3:8—Christ opens and shuts doors. • Watch for alignments between Scripture, inner conviction, and outward opportunity. Practical Steps to Discern God’s Will • Immerse yourself daily in the Word; note verses that speak directly to your situation. • Pray specifically, surrendering your own preferences (Luke 22:42). • Listen for the Spirit’s prompting—never in conflict with Scripture. • Invite mature believers to speak into your decision; weigh their input. • Evaluate motives: Romans 12:2 urges renewing the mind so we can “test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.” • Move forward in faith, trusting God’s sovereignty even when details remain unclear. Lessons from Saul to Keep Us on Track • Disobedience today can cloud discernment tomorrow. Keep short accounts with God. • Desperation is no excuse for compromise; the greater the pressure, the more vital faithful obedience becomes. • God’s silence is an invitation to repent and wait, not to improvise forbidden shortcuts. Living in the Light, Not the Shadows Commit to God’s appointed means—Scripture, prayer, the Spirit, wise counsel, and providence. These channels are more than enough to reveal His will, guard our hearts, and keep us from the tragic path Saul chose. |
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