Definition:
Active guidance refers to the belief and experience of God's direct and ongoing involvement in the lives of believers, providing direction, wisdom, and discernment through various means. This concept is rooted in the understanding that God is not distant or detached but is actively engaged in guiding His people according to His will and purpose.

Biblical Basis:
The Bible presents numerous instances where God provides active guidance to His people. This guidance can be seen through His Word, the Holy Spirit, prayer, circumstances, and the counsel of other believers.

1. Scriptural Guidance:
The Bible is a primary source of God's guidance. Psalm 119:105 states, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." This verse highlights the role of Scripture in illuminating the path of believers, offering wisdom and direction for life's decisions.

2. Guidance through the Holy Spirit:
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding believers. In John 16:13, Jesus promises, "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth." The Holy Spirit leads believers into truth, helping them discern God's will and make choices aligned with His purposes.

3. Prayer as a Means of Guidance:
Prayer is a vital avenue for seeking God's guidance. James 1:5 encourages believers, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." Through prayer, believers can seek divine wisdom and direction for their lives.

4. Circumstantial Guidance:
God often uses circumstances to guide His people. Romans 8:28 assures believers, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose." This verse underscores the belief that God orchestrates events in the lives of believers to fulfill His divine purposes.

5. Counsel from Other Believers:
The counsel of fellow believers is another means of active guidance. Proverbs 11:14 states, "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." The community of faith provides wisdom and insight, helping individuals discern God's direction.

Examples in Scripture:
· Abraham: God actively guided Abraham, calling him to leave his homeland and promising to make him a great nation (Genesis 12:1-3). Abraham's journey is marked by God's direct intervention and guidance.
· Moses: God provided guidance to Moses through the burning bush (Exodus 3:1-4) and throughout the Exodus journey, leading the Israelites with a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21).
· Paul: The Apostle Paul experienced active guidance through visions and the Holy Spirit's direction, as seen in Acts 16:6-10, where he was directed to Macedonia.

Theological Implications:
Active guidance emphasizes the personal relationship between God and believers. It affirms God's sovereignty and His intimate involvement in the lives of His people. This guidance requires believers to be attentive, obedient, and responsive to God's leading, trusting in His wisdom and timing.

Practical Application:
Believers are encouraged to seek God's active guidance through regular engagement with Scripture, prayer, and the fellowship of other Christians. By cultivating a sensitive and obedient heart, they can discern God's direction and align their lives with His will.