How can we discern actions that please or displease God and family today? The Snapshot from Genesis 28:8 “Esau saw that the daughters of Canaan were displeasing to his father Isaac, so Esau went to Ishmael and took Mahalath…besides the wives he had.” (Genesis 28:8) • Esau paid attention to what grieved his father. • He acted—though imperfectly—to repair that breach. • The verse reminds us that what pleases or displeases family can reveal what pleases or displeases God, when family values align with His word. Seeing Through Two Sets of Eyes—God’s and Family’s • God’s commands are the primary lens (Deuteronomy 6:4-9). • Parents are the secondary lens: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.” (Ephesians 6:1-3) • When both lenses agree, clarity sharpens; when they conflict, God’s word remains supreme (Acts 5:29). Principles for Discernment 1. Search Scripture first. – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) 2. Check motives. – “Each of us will give an account of himself to God.” (Romans 14:12) 3. Consider family impact. – “Honor your father and mother…that it may go well with you.” (Ephesians 6:2-3) 4. Seek counsel. – “In an abundance of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14) 5. Look for peace. – “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” (Colossians 3:15) Practical Checkpoints • Will this choice violate a clear biblical command? • Would trusted, godly family members affirm it? • Does it cultivate love, purity, integrity, and humility? • Could it cause a weaker believer to stumble? (1 Corinthians 8:9) • After prayer and reflection, is the Holy Spirit giving confidence or warning? (Galatians 5:16) Companion Scriptures • Pleasing God: 1 Thessalonians 4:1; 1 John 3:22 • Pleasing family: Colossians 3:20; Proverbs 23:22-25 • Guarding against people-pleasing: Galatians 1:10 • Renewed thinking: Romans 12:2 Outcome of Wise Discernment • Aligns our heart with God’s will. • Builds trust and harmony at home. • Guards us from regret and restores when we fail (1 John 1:9). • Positions us to receive blessing—“whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do what is pleasing in His sight.” (1 John 3:22) |
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