What steps can we take to prioritize God's revelation over human counsel today? Paul’s Pattern in Galatians 1:16 “to reveal His Son in me so that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not rush to consult with flesh and blood,” (Galatians 1:16) Paul receives a clear unveiling of Christ and, before seeking advice, chooses solitude with the Lord. His reflex becomes our roadmap. Know the Limits of Human Counsel • Human insight is finite (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Even godly friends can misjudge (Job 32:1-3). • Any voice contrary to Scripture lacks light (Isaiah 8:20). Anchor First in Scripture • Daily intake: read, meditate, and memorize (Psalm 119:105). • Test every teaching like the Bereans (Acts 17:11). • Let “all Scripture” train and equip you (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Practical help: – Schedule a set reading plan before social media or news. – Keep a notebook: “What God just showed me” vs. “What people just told me.” The written comparison spotlights discrepancies. Cultivate Attentiveness to the Spirit • The Spirit of truth guides into “all truth” (John 16:13). • Quiet the noise: designate tech-free, silence-rich spaces. • When decisions loom, pause: “Spirit, confirm through Your Word.” If no alignment emerges, wait. Seek Counsel Only After Hearing God • Paul waited three years before meeting apostles (Galatians 1:17-18). • Order matters: 1. Revelation from God. 2. Confirmation through likeminded believers. 3. Action. • Ask advisors to ground their input in explicit passages, not impressions. Pray for Wisdom Continually • God “gives generously” when we ask (James 1:5). • Prayer turns information into revelation. Routine suggestion: pray through each text you study, inserting your name into promises and commands. Evaluate Counsel by Clear Criteria Does it … – Exalt Christ’s lordship? – Agree with the plain sense of Scripture? – Produce the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)? – Promote holiness and loving obedience (John 14:15)? Anything failing the test is discarded. Walk in Obedience, Trusting God’s Outcome • Paul obeyed and the gospel advanced. • Obedience secures guidance for the next step (Psalm 37:23). • Trust collapses anxiety; God steers the willing heart (Proverbs 3:6). Living It Out This Week • First 15 minutes of each day: Bible before phone. • One decision you’re facing: write it down, list relevant verses, listen three days before asking anyone’s opinion. • Share only after Scripture and Spirit have spoken, then move forward confidently. |
    |