What does Manoah's question reveal about seeking God's guidance in our lives? The Scene: Manoah’s Question “ ‘When your words come to pass, what will be the boy’s rule of life and mission?’ ” (Judges 13:12) Manoah has already accepted God’s promise—“when,” not “if.” He wants the details necessary for faithful obedience; vague faith is not enough for godly parenting. Key Truths About Seeking Guidance • Faith welcomes God’s word as certain fact. • Faith also seeks practical instruction for everyday obedience. • God honors humble requests for clarification without rebuking the questioner (cf. James 1:5). How Manoah Models Trust 1. Expectation: he speaks as though the promised son already exists (Hebrews 11:1). 2. Submission: he asks, “What will be the boy’s rule of life…?” not, “Can we negotiate the rule?” 3. Responsibility: he feels accountable to train his child according to God’s revealed will (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Lessons For Our Daily Walk • Ask specifically—“Lord, show me the ‘rule of life’ for this situation.” • Accept Scripture’s principles first, then seek their concrete application. • Receive guidance for stewardship over what God entrusts: children, ministry, resources. • Move from promise to planning; God’s word shapes our agenda, not the reverse (Proverbs 3:5-6). Supporting Scriptures • Psalm 25:4-5 — “Show me Your ways, O LORD; teach me Your paths.” • Psalm 32:8 — “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.” • 1 Samuel 3:10 — “Speak, for Your servant is listening.” • Acts 9:6 — “What shall I do, Lord?” Paul echoes Manoah’s spirit of surrender. Takeaway Summary Manoah’s question teaches that believing God’s promises and pursuing precise guidance go hand in hand. True faith receives the word as sure, then urgently seeks the details necessary to live it out, confident that the God who speaks also directs. |
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