How can we discern God's will when leaders make questionable decisions? Setting the Scene: David’s Questionable Order 1 Chronicles 21:4: “But the king’s word prevailed against Joab. So Joab departed and went throughout all Israel, and returned to Jerusalem.” • David insisted on a census. • Joab sensed something was off, yet carried out the command. • The Lord later called the act sin and disciplined the nation (vv. 7–17). Why This Matters for Us Today • Even God-appointed leaders can press ahead with choices that clash with God’s heart. • Followers may feel torn between respect for authority and allegiance to the Lord. Principle 1: Begin With God’s Unchanging Word • Psalm 119:105—“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” • Scripture never contradicts itself; if a leader’s directive conflicts with clear teaching, God’s will is to obey His Word first. • Acts 5:29—“We must obey God rather than men.” Principle 2: Examine Motives Against God’s Heart • David’s census sprang from pride and misplaced security. • Galatians 6:3 reminds us, “If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.” • Ask: Does this decision promote God’s glory or human ego? Principle 3: Listen to Godly Counsel • Proverbs 11:14—“With many counselors comes deliverance.” • Joab voiced concern. Wise leaders welcome questions; wise followers weigh counsel before acting. • Seek input from mature believers who ground their advice in Scripture. Principle 4: Follow the Spirit’s Conviction • 1 John 4:1—“Test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” • The Spirit never leads contrary to Scripture but often pricks the conscience when something is amiss. • James 1:5—“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God… and it will be given to him.” Principle 5: Obey God Above All, Yet Respect Authority • Romans 13:1 affirms that authority is God-ordained; respectful appeal is proper (as Joab attempted). • If a directive is merely unwise—not sinful—submission may honor God while leaving consequences with Him (1 Peter 2:18–20). • If compliance would mean disobedience to God, civil but firm refusal is required (Daniel 3:16–18). Putting It All Together When leaders press questionable decisions: • Measure every order by Scripture. • Check the heart motives—both theirs and yours. • Gather counsel from trusted, Bible-anchored believers. • Attend to the Spirit’s inner prompting. • Respond with humble respect, yet unwavering obedience to God’s revealed will. |
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