How can we apply the lesson of seeking God's will before making decisions? The Scene: A King’s Invitation and a Prophet’s Choice “...he sent messengers to Balaam son of Beor at Pethor, which is by the Euphrates (in the land of his people), to call him, saying, ‘A people has come out of Egypt; they cover the face of the land and have settled next to me.’” (Numbers 22:5) Balak wants Balaam to curse Israel. The prophet now faces a decision with spiritual weight. His first response will reveal whether he values God’s will above personal gain. Timeless Principle: Ask First, Act Second • God alone knows the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10). • Decisions made without Him may look profitable but end in regret (Proverbs 14:12). • Balaam’s story shows the danger of consulting God only after a plan is already forming. Verse 12 proves God had a clear answer waiting: “Do not go with them…” If Balaam’s heart had been settled on obedience, the matter would have ended there. Why Seeking God’s Will Matters • Protects us from deception—spiritual or financial (Joshua 9:14). • Aligns us with God’s blessing rather than human applause (Psalm 1:1–3). • Keeps conscience clear; obedience brings peace (Psalm 119:165). • Guards testimony; our choices preach louder than words (Matthew 5:16). Scriptural Building Blocks for Decision-Making • Proverbs 3:5-6—Trust, lean not, acknowledge, and receive straight paths. • James 1:5—Ask for wisdom; it will be given. • Psalm 32:8—He promises instruction and counsel. • Isaiah 30:21—Guidance so close it can be heard. • Colossians 3:17—Whatever you do, do it in the name of the Lord Jesus. How to Seek God’s Will Today 1. Begin with surrender – “Not my will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). 2. Search Scripture deliberately – God’s voice never contradicts His written Word. 3. Pray patiently – Silence can be guidance; wait until peace comes (Philippians 4:7). 4. Consult godly counsel – “In the multitude of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14). 5. Examine motives – Ask if ambition, fear, or greed is steering the heart (Jeremiah 17:9). 6. Observe providence – Open and closed doors often confirm direction (Revelation 3:7). Recognizing Counterfeits • Pressure that demands immediate action often bypasses prayer. • Opportunities that violate clear commands of Scripture are never from God. • Promises of gain that depend on compromising convictions reveal the enemy’s fingerprints. Practical Takeaways for Everyday Choices • Schedule unhurried prayer before major commitments—calendar it like any meeting. • Keep a journal of requests and the Scriptures God highlights; patterns emerge. • Decide in advance that any answer from God is final, even if it costs perks or popularity. • Cultivate a lifestyle of quick obedience in small matters; it prepares the heart for larger ones. • Revisit decisions regularly, confirming you’re still aligned with the direction first given. As Balaam learned, knowing God’s will is only half the lesson; the other half is honoring it. Every choice becomes an altar where faith either bows or bargains. Choose to bow—ask first, act second, and walk forward in the settled confidence that His way is always right. |
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