In what ways can we seek God's guidance when assuming new responsibilities? A Kingdom Firmly Established 1 Kings 2:12: “So Solomon sat on the throne of his father David, and his kingdom was firmly established.” • Solomon’s throne was not self-made; God ensured it was “firmly established.” • Every new role God places before us carries that same divine underpinning. We do not walk into a vacuum; we step into a place God has already secured. • Our first response, then, is trust—resting in the fact that God’s hand preceded ours. Seek Wisdom Above All • 1 Kings 3:9—Solomon’s very first ask as king: “Give Your servant an understanding heart.” • James 1:5—“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously.” Practical steps: – Begin each day petitioning God for insight specific to the responsibilities before you. – Keep a journal of the decisions you must make; pray through them, noting how God answers. Anchor Yourself in Scripture • Deuteronomy 17:18-19 commanded every Israelite king to write out the Law and read it daily. • Psalm 119:105—“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Suggestions: – Adopt a reading plan focused on passages about leadership (e.g., Proverbs, pastoral epistles). – Memorize key verses that speak to your new role; repeat them when pressures rise. Practice Dependence Through Prayer • Philippians 4:6-7—Pray about everything; peace follows. • Colossians 4:2—“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Ideas: – Schedule brief “kneel-downs” at transition points in your day. – When a decision looms, pause and pray before responding—modeling reliance on God, not impulse. Listen for His Voice • 1 Kings 3:5—“At Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night.” • Isaiah 30:21—“Your ears will hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” Habits to cultivate: – Create quiet space—turn off the phone, step outside, let silence sharpen spiritual hearing. – Hold decisions loosely until you sense inner confirmation that aligns with Scripture. Surround Yourself with God-Fearing Counsel • Proverbs 11:14—“In the multitude of counselors there is safety.” • Contrast Solomon’s son Rehoboam, who rejected wise elders (1 Kings 12) and split the kingdom. Action steps: – Identify seasoned believers who excel in areas you’re stepping into; invite their input. – Weigh every piece of advice against God’s Word before implementing it. Walk in Obedience and Integrity • 1 Kings 2:3—David’s charge to Solomon: “Keep the charge of the LORD your God: to walk in His ways.” • Proverbs 10:9—“He who walks in integrity walks securely.” Checklist: – Refuse shortcuts that compromise biblical principles. – Stay accountable—regularly report both victories and failures to a trusted brother or sister in Christ. Move Forward with Courageous Trust • 1 Chronicles 28:20—“Be strong and courageous, and do it. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God… is with you.” • Proverbs 3:5-6—“Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” Encouragements: – Act when God confirms, even if you still feel unready; obedience often precedes confidence. – Celebrate small evidences of God’s faithfulness to build momentum for larger tasks. Embrace each new responsibility as Solomon did—aware that God has already established the throne beneath you, eager to pour out wisdom, and faithful to guide every step you entrust to Him. |
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