How can we apply the Israelites' approach to decision-making in our daily lives? Setting the Scene “ And the Israelites went up and wept before the LORD until evening, and they inquired of the LORD, ‘Should we again fight against our brothers, the Benjamites?’ ‘Go up against them,’ the LORD replied.” (Judges 20:23) What the Israelites Actually Did • Went up—drew near intentionally • Wept—took their pain and confusion straight to God • Waited until evening—lingered, giving Him unhurried time • Inquired—asked a clear, specific question • Listened—received a direct answer • Obeyed—moved forward exactly as instructed Key Principles to Carry into Daily Decisions • Draw near first, act second – Psalm 73:28 “But as for me, it is good to draw near to God.” • Engage your emotions honestly – Psalm 62:8 “Pour out your hearts before Him.” • Give God unhurried space to speak – Isaiah 40:31 “Those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength.” • Ask specific questions, not vague wishes – 1 Samuel 30:8 “David inquired of the LORD, ‘Shall I pursue?’” • Expect real answers from His Word, Spirit, and providence – James 1:5 “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God… and it will be given.” • Obey the clarity you receive, even if it repeats a hard assignment – Proverbs 3:5–6 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” Practical Steps for Modern Life 1. Schedule a “go up” moment • Set aside a non-negotiable time and place to meet with God before big choices. 2. Let the tears flow if needed • Journaling, silent prayer, or spoken lament keeps the heart soft and receptive. 3. Wait past the first rush of emotion • Resist the urge to decide while adrenaline is high; linger until peace settles. 4. Frame the question clearly • Write it: “Lord, should I accept this job?” “Do You want me to reconcile now?” 5. Open Scripture expecting an answer • Read sequentially; note verses the Spirit amplifies. 6. Confirm through counsel and circumstances • God’s answer will never contradict His written Word. 7. Act promptly on the light you have • Partial clarity still calls for obedience in the next step revealed. Supporting Snapshots • Joshua 9:14—Israel failed to ask the LORD and was deceived; consulting God protects. • Acts 13:2—Leaders “were worshiping the Lord and fasting” when the Spirit spoke; worship positions us to hear. • 2 Chronicles 20:12—Jehoshaphat: “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You”; focus shifts from problem to Person. Summary Takeaways • Decision-making is first relational, then rational. • Honest emotion plus humble inquiry invites divine direction. • Waiting time is never wasted time. • God speaks with clarity; our role is immediate obedience. |
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