What personal attitudes might hinder accepting God's guidance, as seen in Acts 7:27? Setting the Scene in Acts 7:27 “ ‘But the man who was hurting his neighbor pushed Moses aside and said, “Who made you ruler and judge over us?” ’ ”. Stephen recalls how an Israelite rejected Moses’ attempt at reconciliation. The same reflex can keep anyone from recognizing and following God’s direction today. Attitudes That Shut Out God’s Guidance • Prideful independence – “Who made you ruler…?” signals a heart convinced it needs no outside authority (cf. Proverbs 16:18). • Contempt for God-appointed leadership – pushing Moses aside showed disdain for the means God was using (Romans 13:1–2). • Self-defensiveness – the offender felt exposed and reacted by resisting rather than repenting (John 3:20). • Short-sighted judgment – Moses appeared merely as another man, so the bigger divine plan behind him was missed (1 Samuel 16:7). • Hardened conscience – repeated sin had dulled sensitivity, making correction feel like an intrusion instead of mercy (Hebrews 3:12–13). Scriptural Snapshots of the Same Heart Issues • Israel rejecting Samuel’s warnings, demanding a king “like all the nations” (1 Samuel 8:4–7). • King Uzziah burning incense, angrily resisting priestly rebuke—“because his heart was lifted up” (2 Chronicles 26:16–19). • Peter opposing Jesus’ path to the cross—“Far be it from You, Lord!” (Matthew 16:22–23). • Diotrephes, who “loves to be first,” refusing apostolic counsel (3 John 9–10). Living Out an Open, Teachable Heart • Remember God often speaks through imperfect people; humility leaves room to hear Him. • Welcome biblical correction as evidence of sonship (Hebrews 12:5–6). • Discern authority structures God has established and honor them (Ephesians 6:1–9). • Cultivate continual repentance; soft hearts receive fresh guidance (Psalm 51:17). • Stay word-saturated—Scripture renews the mind, disarming pride and defensiveness (Romans 12:2). |
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