Get God's Instructions First

In walking with the Lord, it is always important to keep our ears tuned to hear His voice and instructions for our journey. He has blessed us with the ability to come straight to His throne with any question, problem, or conversation we want. And He responds to us with His wisdom! We should take advantage of our privilege.

Too often, though, we take it upon ourselves to make decisions arbitrarily. We go through our own decision-making process without seeking the Lord's infinite wisdom. Many times our decisions lead us down the wrong roads.

When armies came to attack Judah, Jehoshaphat went into fasting and prayer with the nation. He chose to seek God's wisdom before making a move. God instructed Jehoshaphat to stand still. As Judah lifted up songs of praise, God Himself sent forth armies to fight for Judah that killed every single one of their enemies. (2 Chronicles 20)

What might have happened if Jehoshaphat decided on his own to go out and fight? What if he had chosen instead to surrender? Yet, the king saw the miraculous power of God on display just because he chose to stop and ask God what to do.

Today, make the choice to stop and ask God what to do. When you come up to a decision, don't go into your normal routine of rationalizing, strategizing, or planning on your own. Take a moment to consult the Lord.

You just may see some of God's miraculous moves take place in your life.

Verse of the Day: Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God's. 2 Chronicles 20:15b

What Is Your Request?

When Solomon became king, the Lord appeared to him and told Solomon that whatever he asked, God would give to him. Solomon had grown up in the palace, he saw what his father David had accomplished and the opportunities that were awarded him. He also saw his father's battles, betrayals, and disappointments.

Solomon could have requested the greatest riches, an expanded kingdom, a strong and unbeatable army, faithful confidants... any number of things. Yet, Solomon asked for wisdom. He was tasked with leading one of the greatest nations on the earth at that time. He didn't want to mess up the legacy his father had left to him. Solomon wanted to lead God's people with confidence in all his decisions.

God was pleased when Solomon asked for wisdom. And because Solomon's request was right, all of the riches, prestige, and honor were given to him as well.

If God showed up and gave you the same question as he did Solomon, what would you ask for? If you knew that whatever you said would be instantly granted, what would you say?

It is important for us to always remember things in light of the big picture. Too many times our prayers to God are not focused on the right areas. We focus on trivial matters or our own selfish desires, not remembering that we are here on an eternal assignment.

Today, when you pray, think about the big picture. Think about the task that God has for you to do here on earth. What do you need in order to get your mission accomplished successfully?

Remember Jesus told us that whatever we asked believing, God would do. (Matthew 21:22) What do you really want God to do for you?

Verse of the Day:
And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing.

And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment; Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee.

And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honour: so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee all thy days. And if thou wilt walk in my ways, to keep my statutes and my commandments, as thy father David did walk, then I will lengthen thy days. 1 Kings 3:10-14

Got A Question? Ask!

Reading through my Christian blogs and websites this morning, it's apparent that the church is recognizing all the change going on, and people are wondering if some of those changes are going to drift over into the church. Young people are asking questions about their faith. Some folks are challenging established beliefs. Christians are wondering if in this 'evolving' world, should the church evolve too?

What I love about our faith is that God is always there to talk with us and show us more of Himself. When we have questions, He will take the time to answer them. When we have concerns, He will find ways to alleviate them. We just have to be open to seek out the answers and keep our ears listening out for His voice.

Jesus was a living example of our relationship with God in His interactions with the disciples. Whatever questions they had, reasonable (How many times should I forgive?) or borderline (Which one of us will sit on your right hand?). Jesus made sure He answered. Even when the Pharisees and Sadducees came with their questions rooted in disbelief, Jesus answered every one.

There is no question too great. No question to silly. No inquiry too small for God to handle. Even when the apostles were trying to figure out how to minister and fellowship with Gentiles, through prayer and God's wisdom, they were able to get an answer.

What questions do you have about your walk with God? Are the changes around you causing you to wonder about what to believe? Even if your views are unshakable, do you think about how to relay those beliefs to others in a loving manner?

We have a God who is always there and holds all the answers. We just have to seek Him out and trust that He will answer our questions. Sometimes seeking God takes some work. We may have to read our Bibles a little deeper. We may have to study and pray more than we regularly do. We just might have to sit and wait on the Lord's still small voice.

Just know that your searching is not in vain. Know that the answers you seek are coming. When God shows up, there won't be a shadow of a doubt left in your mind as to what to believe. One thing we can rest assured in: God is thorough.

So ask away! Look to the Lord for the answers that you seek. You'll definitely find them in Him.

Verse of the Day: Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Matthew 7:7, 8