How can we discern God's guidance in our daily decision-making? Scripture Focus: Matthew 27:19 “While he was seated on the judgment seat, his wife sent him a message: ‘Have nothing to do with that righteous Man, for I have suffered greatly today in a dream because of Him.’ ” Recognizing God’s Promptings • God can break through the noise of our routines just as He did through Pilate’s wife’s dream. • Dreams, inner impressions, Scripture verses “lighting up,” counsel from other believers—each can serve as a nudge of divine guidance. • Compare: – Job 33:14-15—God speaks “once, yes twice” in dreams. – John 10:27—“My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” Principles Drawn from the Passage 1. Sensitivity matters: Pilate ignored the warning; we should not. 2. Timeliness is key: the message came “while he was seated,” right in the decision moment. 3. Consequences follow choices: ignoring God’s counsel led to tragic outcomes; obeying preserves peace and righteousness. Practical Steps for Daily Discernment • Immerse in Scripture – Psalm 119:105—God’s Word “is a lamp for my feet.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17—Scripture equips “for every good work,” including everyday choices. • Pray for wisdom – James 1:5—ask and He “will give generously.” • Listen to godly counsel – Proverbs 11:14—“victory is won through many advisers.” • Pay attention to inner checks – Colossians 3:15—let Christ’s peace “rule” (act as umpire) in your heart. • Observe providential circumstances – Acts 16:6-10—doors closed and opened guided Paul’s direction. • Wait for confirmation – Isaiah 30:21—“whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way.’ ” Safeguards Against Misinterpretation • Test every prompting against the written Word (Galatians 1:8). • Evaluate fruit: does the direction produce love, joy, peace, and righteousness? (Matthew 7:16; Galatians 5:22-23). • Avoid rushing; God’s guidance is steady, never frantic (Psalm 46:10). Putting It All Together 1. Start the day with Scripture and prayer. 2. As decisions arise, pause and invite the Spirit’s leading. 3. Measure options against biblical truth. 4. Seek mature counsel when stakes are high. 5. Move forward in faith, confident that “in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:6). |
    |