How can we apply the lesson of seeking God's guidance in our decisions? Setting the Scene in Isaiah 7:12 “But Ahaz replied, ‘I will not ask; I will not test the LORD.’” King Ahaz faced military threats from Israel and Aram. God, through Isaiah, invited him to request a confirming sign. Ahaz sounded humble, yet his refusal sprang from unbelief, not reverence. By declining divine guidance, he chose political maneuvering over trusting God. What Went Wrong with Ahaz • Fear eclipsed faith—he trusted alliances, not the Almighty • Pride masked as piety—he hid unbelief behind a religious-sounding excuse • Missed opportunity—God stood ready to reveal His will, but Ahaz shut the door Lessons for Our Decision-Making Today • Guard against pious-sounding independence; it still equals unbelief • Recognize that God welcomes our requests for direction (Psalm 32:8) • Lean on God first, before strategies or alliances (Proverbs 3:5-6) • Refusal to seek Him is itself a decision—with consequences Practical Steps to Seek God’s Guidance 1. Open His Word daily; Scripture is the primary channel of guidance (Psalm 119:105) 2. Pray specifically, expecting wisdom (James 1:5) 3. Invite godly counsel; the Spirit often speaks through mature believers (Proverbs 15:22) 4. Wait for clarity; impatience can muddy the signal (Psalm 27:14) 5. Obey promptly once direction comes; revelation is tied to obedience (John 14:21) Cross-References That Reinforce the Call to Seek God • Proverbs 3:5-6—“Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” • Psalm 37:5—“Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it.” • Jeremiah 33:3—“Call to Me and I will answer and show you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” • John 10:27—“My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” Encouragement to Act God still invites His people to seek His counsel. Unlike Ahaz, let’s approach Him boldly, listen attentively, and walk confidently in the direction He provides, trusting His unfailing Word every step of the way. |
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