Message: “Guided by the Word Part 2” from Joe Summers

Joe Summers - December 3, 2023

Guided by the Word Part 2

Guided by the Word: Making Decisions in the Light of Scripture" Part 2 Lesson Objective: To empower us to make wise, God-centered decisions in our lives by understanding and applying Biblical principles. Main Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight." 1. Seek God’s Wisdom First - James 1:5** *Explanation*: This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking divine wisdom in our decision-making. God’s wisdom is pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere (James 3:17). When we lack understanding, we are encouraged to ask God, who gives generously. *Example*: Imagine a student facing a choice between two job offers. One is financially lucrative but requires compromising some ethical standards. The other is less profitable but aligns with Christian values. Seeking God’s wisdom through prayer and reflection on His Word can guide the student to choose the job that aligns with their faith and values. **2. Align Decisions with God’s Word - Psalm 119:105** *Explanation*: God's Word should be the foundation upon which we base our decisions. It acts as a 'lamp' and a 'light', providing guidance and clarity in a world that can often be confusing and misleading. *Example*: A young adult is in a relationship and is considering becoming more intimate. By aligning their decision with God’s Word, which advocates for purity and commitment (1 Corinthians 6:18-20), they decide to wait until marriage, thus honoring God with their body and relationship. **3. Prayerful Consideration - Philippians 4:6-7** *Explanation*: This passage teaches us to bring all our anxieties and decisions to God in prayer. In doing so, we are promised peace that transcends understanding, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. *Example*: A student is anxious about their future career path. Instead of succumbing to anxiety, they bring their concerns to God in prayer, seeking His guidance and peace. This prayerful consideration opens their heart to recognize God’s direction, perhaps through opportunities and insights they hadn’t considered before. **4. Seek Godly Counsel - Proverbs 11:14** *Explanation*: This verse highlights the value of seeking advice from wise, spiritually mature individuals. Godly counsel can provide clarity, different perspectives, and confirmation in our decision-making process. *Example*: A young adult is considering dropping out of college due to financial strain. Before making a decision, they seek counsel from their pastor, a Christian mentor, and their parents. Through these discussions, they receive practical advice, encouragement, and explore options like scholarships or part-time work, which they hadn't considered. **5. Consider God’s Will and Purpose - Romans 12:2** *Explanation*: This scripture encourages us not to conform to the world's patterns but to be transformed by renewing our minds. This transformation helps in discerning God’s will – His good, pleasing, and perfect will. *Example*: A graduate is offered a high-paying job in a field they are not passionate about. Instead of immediately accepting the offer, they reflect on how this position aligns with their God-given talents and passions. They decide to pursue a career that aligns more closely with their spiritual gifts and sense of calling, trusting that God’s will is not just about financial gain but fulfilling purpose. **6. Act in Faith and Trust in God - Hebrews 11:1** *Explanation*: Faith involves trust in God’s promises and assurance about things we cannot see. When making decisions, this faith guides us, even when the outcome is not fully known or understood. *Example*: A young couple is considering whether to start a mission abroad, which involves significant risk and uncertainty. They decide to move forward, acting in faith, trusting that God has called them to this mission, even though they cannot see all the details of how it will unfold. **Conclusion and Call to Action:** In conclusion, each of these scriptures offers a unique perspective on how to make decisions grounded in faith and aligned with God’s will. As you face various crossroads in life, remember these principles. This week, I challenge you to apply at least one of these scriptures in a decision you are making. Whether it's consulting God's Word, seeking wise counsel, or stepping out in faith, let your decisions be a reflection of your trust and commitment to following God's path for your life. Let us be a community that not only learns God's principles but lives them out in every decision we make.

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