In what ways can we seek God's guidance in choosing leaders today? Anchoring Truth: Numbers 27:18 “Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him.’” Why This Verse Matters Today God personally identifies and confirms a leader, highlighting: • Divine initiative – leadership begins with God’s choice, not ours. • Spiritual qualification – the Spirit’s presence outweighs résumé or popularity. Steps for Seeking God’s Guidance in Choosing Leaders • Look for the unmistakable work of the Spirit – Romans 8:14: “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.” – Acts 6:3: leaders were chosen because they were “full of the Spirit and wisdom.” Practical check: Does the individual’s life consistently show the Spirit’s fruit (Galatians 5:22-23)? • Examine character over charisma – 1 Samuel 16:7: “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” – Titus 1:7-8 lists self-control, integrity, and devotion as non-negotiables. Guideline: Favor proven faithfulness over flashy promises. • Seek community affirmation and accountability – Numbers 27:19-20: Joshua is presented “before the whole congregation” for confirmation. – Proverbs 11:14: “Victory is won through many advisers.” Practice: Discuss candidates with mature believers, valuing collective discernment. • Pray for specific wisdom – James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God… and it will be given to him.” – Philippians 4:6-7 promises peace that guards hearts when decisions are bathed in prayer. Habit: Pray both privately and corporately before committing to a choice. • Weigh decisions by the plumb line of Scripture – Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – Deuteronomy 17:18-19 required Israel’s king to write and read God’s law daily. Action step: Compare a leader’s platform and lifestyle with clear biblical commands. • Recognize God’s sovereign timing – Daniel 2:21: “He removes kings and establishes them.” – Acts 13:2: The Spirit set apart Barnabas and Saul “for the work.” Mind-set: Trust that even if the process seems slow or uncertain, God remains in control. Encouragement for Today Just as Moses patiently waited for God to identify Joshua, believers today can rely on God’s unchanging Word and the Holy Spirit’s guidance to discern trustworthy leaders. Staying anchored in Scripture, prayer, and community keeps the focus where it belongs—on God’s choice, God’s time, and God’s glory. |
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