How can we apply Samuel's example of seeking God's will in decision-making? Scripture Snapshot “Samuel listened to all the words of the people and repeated them in the hearing of the LORD.” – 1 Samuel 8:21 Samuel’s Pattern of Seeking God • He listened carefully to the situation before reacting. • He carried the entire matter, unchanged and unedited, into God’s presence. • He waited for God’s answer instead of assuming he already knew it (vv. 7, 22). • When God spoke, he obeyed even though the command (granting a king) grieved him personally. Practical Steps for Us Today 1. Listen Before Leaping – Gather the facts with humility (Proverbs 18:13). 2. Carry It Directly to God – Speak to Him as frankly as Samuel did; nothing is off-limits (Philippians 4:6-7). 3. Wait for Clear Direction – Give God room to respond through His Word, His Spirit, and godly counsel (Psalm 130:5; John 16:13). 4. Measure Every Option Against Scripture – God’s voice never contradicts His written Word (Isaiah 8:20). 5. Follow Through Promptly – Obedience seals discernment; delay breeds doubt (James 1:22-25). 6. Trust God With the Outcome – Even when His answer is hard, He works for our good (Romans 8:28). Supporting Verses That Echo the Pattern • Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the LORD…He will make your paths straight.” • Psalm 25:4-5 – “Show me Your ways, O LORD.” • James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God.” • Acts 13:2-3 – Early church seeks direction through prayer and fasting. • 2 Chronicles 20:12 – Jehoshaphat: “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You.” Putting It into Practice This Week • Schedule an unhurried block of time to bring one pressing decision before the Lord. • Write the facts in a journal, then pray them back to Him exactly as they are. • Read a passage related to the issue; note any commands or principles. • Seek confirmation through a mature believer who honors Scripture. • When peace and clarity align with the Word, step forward in faith, thanking God for guiding you as He guided Samuel. |
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