How should we seek God's guidance before making significant decisions, as seen here? The moment in 1 Chronicles 17:3 “But that night the word of God came to Nathan, saying,” – 1 Chronicles 17:3 David planned to build a temple. Nathan the prophet initially agreed. Only after night fell did God speak and redirect the plan. The delay is deliberate: God’s guidance arrives before the work begins, not after. What this reveals about seeking guidance • Human approval, even from respected leaders, is never a substitute for God’s word. • Waiting gives God space to clarify what seems good in our own eyes. • Guidance can come unexpectedly, yet always in time for obedience. Why this matters for our decisions • Significant choices shape families, ministries, and witness; they deserve divine direction. • Acting on impulse risks building what God never asked for. • Assurance that God has spoken fosters peace and perseverance when challenges appear later. Clear steps to seek God’s guidance 1. Pause before acting. “Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him” (Psalm 37:7). 2. Pray specifically for wisdom. “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously” (James 1:5). 3. Search Scripture. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). 4. Invite the Spirit’s leading. “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). 5. Seek godly counsel that submits to Scripture. “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). 6. Wait for confirmation and inner peace. “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” (Colossians 3:15). 7. Obey promptly once direction is clear. “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it” (Luke 11:28). Anchoring promises when waiting feels long • “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) • “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My loving eye on you.” (Psalm 32:8) • “Your ears will hear this command behind you: ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” (Isaiah 30:21) • “Call to Me and I will answer you and show you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” (Jeremiah 33:3) Pitfalls to avoid • Rushing a decision because circumstances pressure a quick answer. • Assuming past guidance automatically applies to a new situation. • Ignoring Scripture that contradicts personal desires. • Equating closed doors with denial; sometimes they are simply delays. Encouraging takeaways • God cares about every major decision and is willing to speak. • His timing safeguards us from mistaken enthusiasm. • Obedience after clear guidance always accomplishes more than action driven by good intentions alone. |
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