In what ways can we seek God's wisdom in challenging situations today? The Snapshot in 1 Samuel 14:41 “Then Saul said to the LORD, the God of Israel, ‘Why have You not answered Your servant today? If the guilt is with me or my son Jonathan, O LORD God of Israel, give Urim; but if the guilt is with Your people Israel, give Thummim.’ And Jonathan and Saul were chosen, but the people were cleared.” (1 Samuel 14:41) What We Notice in Saul’s Moment • A crisis pressed Saul to seek an immediate answer. • He turned to the God-ordained means of the day (Urim and Thummim). • He submitted to whatever answer God revealed. • The Lord decisively spoke into the situation. Timeless Lessons From This Scene • God welcomes His people to inquire of Him instead of relying on human strategies. • He provides reliable channels for guidance. • His answers may confront us personally before addressing others. Ways We Seek God’s Wisdom Today 1. The Written Word • “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) • “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17) • Open the Bible first; let clear statements shape uncertain decisions. 2. Prayerful Asking • “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5) • “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6-7) • Speak honestly, then pause to listen. 3. The Holy Spirit’s Inner Leading • “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13) • “We have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us.” (1 Corinthians 2:12) • The Spirit never contradicts Scripture; He applies it personally and timely. 4. Godly Counsel • “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22) • Seek believers who know the Word, walk in integrity, and will speak truth even when it stings. 5. Obedient Faith Steps • “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) • “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the will of God.” (Romans 12:2) • Clarity often comes while we move forward in the light we already have. Putting It Into Practice When a Decision Looms • Pause, quiet your heart, and acknowledge God’s sovereignty. • Search related passages; note commands, promises, and principles. • Lay every preference before the Lord in prayer. • Invite the Spirit to convict, confirm, or redirect. • Discuss insights with seasoned believers. • Look for God’s peace (Colossians 3:15) paired with biblical alignment. • Act with confidence, trusting God to correct your course if needed. Steadying Promises to Hold • “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you.” (Psalm 32:8) • “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear this command behind you: ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” (Isaiah 30:21) • “I know the plans I have for you … plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11) Living the Lesson Just as Saul appealed to God’s designated means, we lean on the fuller resources God has granted in Christ—Scripture, prayer, the indwelling Spirit, the church, and obedient faith. These pathways keep us anchored in His wisdom when life’s choices press hard. |
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