How can you prioritize seeking God's guidance in decisions, like Solomon did? Solomon’s first move: gathering before God “Then Solomon spoke to all Israel— to the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, to the judges, and to every leader in all Israel, the heads of the families—” (2 Chronicles 1:2) • Solomon’s very first royal act was to call the entire nation’s leadership together before the LORD. • Instead of issuing executive orders, he prioritized collective worship and submission to God. • This set the tone for every decision that followed—including his famous request for wisdom (1:7-12). What Solomon’s action teaches us • Decisions begin with worship, not with brainstorming. • God’s presence is sought before human plans are drafted. • Wise leadership invites others to seek God alongside us (Proverbs 15:22). Practical steps to prioritize God’s guidance 1. Pause before acting – Take deliberate time to meet with God (Psalm 46:10). 2. Seek God’s Word first – Read and meditate daily; He speaks through Scripture (Psalm 119:105). 3. Pray specifically for wisdom – “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God” (James 1:5). 4. Gather godly counsel – Share decisions with mature believers, as Solomon gathered leaders (Proverbs 11:14). 5. Offer the sacrifice of obedience – Commit beforehand to follow whatever God reveals (1 Samuel 15:22). 6. Wait and listen – God often answers in stillness or through Scripture, sermons, or wise friends (John 10:27). Daily habits that keep God first • Begin each morning with Scripture and prayer before checking phone or email. • Keep a journal of requests and the Scriptures God uses to answer them. • Memorize key promises: Proverbs 3:5-6; Isaiah 30:21; Jeremiah 33:3. • Schedule periodic fasting to sharpen spiritual hearing (Matthew 6:17-18). Guardrails against impulse decisions • Refuse to lean on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). • Give major choices at least one full day of prayer. • Compare every opportunity with biblical principles; God never contradicts His Word (Psalm 19:7-9). Encouraging promises to cling to • “Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.” (Matthew 6:8) • “The LORD confides in those who fear Him; He reveals His covenant to them.” (Psalm 25:14) • “God is not a God of disorder but of peace.” (1 Corinthians 14:33) Follow Solomon’s pattern: gather your heart, your household, and your plans before the Lord first—then move forward with the confidence that the God who guided Israel still guides His people today. |
    |