How can we discern God's direction in our lives as Paul did? Setting the Scene Acts 22:10 records Paul’s question on the Damascus road: “‘What shall I do, Lord?’ I asked. ‘Get up,’ said the Lord, ‘and go into Damascus. There you will be told all that you have been appointed to do.’” This single sentence models a lifetime pattern for discerning God’s direction. Ask the Right Question • Paul’s first instinct was not “Why me?” but “What shall I do, Lord?” • A heart that settles Christ’s lordship first will hear guidance more clearly (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Make this your reflex whenever a decision surfaces: “Lord, what do You want?” Expect Specific Guidance • Jesus answered Paul with a concrete command: “Get up… go into Damascus.” • Scripture promises clarity, not vagueness: “Your ears will hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it.’” (Isaiah 30:21). • God’s leading may come through: – A text of Scripture freshly illuminated (Psalm 119:105) – An inner prompting of the Spirit (Romans 8:14) – Wise counsel from mature believers (Proverbs 15:22) – Providential circumstances opening or closing doors (Revelation 3:7-8) Obey Immediately • Paul “could see nothing” (Acts 22:11) yet he went the very direction he was told. • Obedience opens the next step; delay often clouds it (John 14:21). • Direction comes in motion—steering a moving vehicle is easier than a parked one. Wait for Further Instruction • In Damascus Paul was “told all that [he had] been appointed to do.” Guidance unfolded progressively. • God rarely unveils the full map at once (Exodus 13:17-18). • Keep doing the last thing God made clear until He speaks again. Use the Whole Counsel of Scripture • God’s voice will never contradict His written Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Test every impression: – Does it align with explicit commands? – Does it reflect God’s character? – Does it promote love and holiness? (1 Thessalonians 4:3) Rely on the Spirit’s Witness • Believers have the same indwelling Guide Paul received: “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13). • The Spirit produces inner peace that acts as an umpire (Colossians 3:15). • If turmoil remains after honest prayer and Scripture search, wait. Practical Checkpoints for Today • Daily surrender—start each morning with Paul’s question. • Regular Scripture intake—read with expectation of personal marching orders. • Consistent prayer—talk and listen, not just list requests (Philippians 4:6-7). • Fellowship—let trusted believers confirm or caution. • Humility—be willing to adjust plans instantly when God redirects. Verses to Memorize • Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the LORD with all your heart…” • Psalm 32:8 — “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.” • James 1:5 — “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God…” • Romans 12:1-2 — discern God’s will by a renewed mind. Follow Paul’s pattern: ask, listen, obey, and keep moving in the light already given. God still speaks, and His Word remains wholly reliable and literally true for every step ahead. |
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