What steps can we take to discern God's will in challenging situations? Setting the Scene 2 Kings 6:11 tells us, “For this reason, the heart of the king of Aram was enraged, and he summoned his servants and demanded of them, ‘Tell me, which of us is on the side of the king of Israel?’” The Aramean king could not understand how his secret war plans kept slipping out—yet Elisha knew every move because God revealed it. In one verse we see three vital truths: • God knows every hidden detail. • He can disclose those details to His people at the exact moment they need them. • Human schemes never override His purposes. Those same truths guide us when we face complicated, confusing choices today. Recognize God’s Complete Knowledge • Psalm 139:2 – “You know when I sit and when I rise; You understand my thoughts from afar.” • Hebrews 4:13 – “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight.” Because the Lord literally sees the entire battlefield, the first step in discerning His will is simply admitting He already has perfect situational awareness—and we don’t. That posture of humility opens the door for guidance. Ask for Revelation • James 1:5 – “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” • Jeremiah 33:3 – “Call to Me and I will answer you and show you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” Practical ways to ask: – Set aside unhurried time to pray over the specific issue. – Phrase the request clearly: “Lord, show me what I cannot possibly know on my own.” – Expect an answer, because He promises one. Search the Word First • Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” • 2 Timothy 3:16–17 – Scripture equips “for every good work.” Checklist for Bible-centered discernment: – Scan passages that address the principle involved (e.g., integrity, forgiveness, stewardship). – Note any direct command or timeless principle; God never guides contrary to His written Word. – Allow the broader storyline of redemption to shape motives and desires. Listen for the Spirit’s Whisper • John 16:13 – “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” • Romans 8:14 – “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.” How the Spirit often speaks: – An inner conviction that aligns with Scripture. – A sense of peace or unrest that persists in prayer. – A timely verse or insight that surfaces repeatedly. Confirm with Godly Counsel • Proverbs 11:14 – “For lack of guidance, a people falls, but with many counselors there is deliverance.” • Acts 15 models believers weighing difficult decisions together. Who qualifies as a counselor? – Someone who walks with the Lord and knows His Word. – Someone unafraid to disagree with you in love. – Someone without a stake in the outcome. Yield in Obedience • Proverbs 3:5–6 – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” • John 13:17 – “If you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” Once God’s direction becomes clear: – Act promptly; delayed obedience erodes confidence. – Stay open to mid-course corrections—the same God who guided Elisha’s every move can refine yours. Wait in Trust • Psalm 25:4-5 – “Show me Your ways… for You are the God of my salvation; all day long I wait for You.” • Isaiah 40:31 – “Those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength.” Waiting is not inactivity; it is active dependence: – Keep doing the last thing God clearly told you. – Thank Him in advance for outcomes you can’t yet see. – Remember that Elisha didn’t just receive one revelation; he lived in continuous reliance. Bringing It Together Elisha’s experience in 2 Kings 6 shows that God delights in guiding His people through hidden terrain. We discern His will in challenging moments when we: 1. Acknowledge His total knowledge. 2. Ask Him directly for insight. 3. Measure every impression against Scripture. 4. Tune in to the Spirit’s promptings. 5. Seek confirmation from wise believers. 6. Obey what He reveals. 7. Wait expectantly for the full picture. Follow these steps, and the same God who thwarted the Aramean army will faithfully steer your path today. |
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