- God promises to guide us.
- He also has a good plan for our lives.
- Even Jesus sought God's guidance.
- Our attitude to recieving God's guidance needs to be one of humility.
We will look at 5 ways God can guide us, all beginning with CS
1. Commanding Scripture (the Bible)
The Bible reveals general instruction for marriage, work, money, children, elderly relatives etc.
It may also bring to light a particular verse in to a specific situation.
2. Compelling Spirit (The Holy Spirit)
God speaks to us as we pray. This can be thoughts, strong impressions and feelings.
God will give us a strong desire to do something.
Sometimes He guides in more unusual ways, such as prophecy, dreams, visions, pictures, angels or an audible voice.
Whenever God guides us through the Holy Spirit we need to test it. Is it loving? Is it in line with the Bible? Is it strengthening, encouraging and comforting? Does it bring the peace of God?
3. Common Sense
John Stott said this, 'God's promises of guidance were not given to save us from the problem of thinking.'
Use the gifts God has given you.
4. Counsel of the Saints (seeking advice from other Christians).
The book of Proverbs tells us several times to seek the advice of others. We need to be sensible about who we ask.
Any decision we make is our responsibility, not the responsibility of those we have sought guidance from.
5. Circumstantial Signs
Ultimately, God is in control. He will open and close doors in our lives.
We need to watch the circumstances but hold these in light of other guidance.
Sometimes we need to persevere in spite of the circumstances.
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We need to look for more than one area of guidance when possible.
We need to be patient when Waiting for God's plan to unfold.
We all make mistakes in interpreting God's guidance.
God is always working for our good.
Recommended Reading
'Chasing the Dragon' by Jackie Pullinger
