SWORD OF THE SPIRIT                                                                        1005

 “They Did Not Inquire”

So the men took some of their provisions, but did not ask counsel from the Lord. (Joshua 9:14)

Joshua and the Israelites had just come from great victories at Jericho and Ai when they were deceived by the Gibeonites into making a covenant treaty with them. They were deceived because they relied upon their worldly wisdom and did not inquire of the Lord.

Our lives are characterized by constant decision-making. What path of study should I take? Should I go to college? Whom should I marry? Should I take that job? … The list is endless, you get the idea.

God’s Word instructs us that we are fools if we trust in our own minds and that we are wise to seek proper counsel.  Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered. (Proverbs 28:26)

 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice. (Proverbs 12:15)

What is proper counsel? Proper counsel is not found in the way of the world nor is it found in spiritists and fortune tellers. Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked… (Psalm 1:1)

Do not turn to mediums or necromancers; do not seek them out, and so make yourselves unclean by them: I am the Lord your God. (Leviticus 19:31)

Proper counsel is found in the Word of God, through prayer, and through fellowship with believers in the Body of Christ.  Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (Psalm 119:105)

 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. (James 1:5)

Where do you turn to seek advice, counsel and direction? Do you rely on your own wisdom and experiences? Does your day start with reading the daily horoscope based upon your astrological sign? No decision you have to make is insignificant before the Lord. Your Father in heaven will not be bothered by your seeking His direction – in fact He welcomes your prayer.  Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. (Luke 11:9)

Our daily walk is one of continuous decision-making; therefore, we should walk in His abiding presence seeking His direction throughout the day.  Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually! (1 Chronicles 16:11)

May the Holy Spirit fill you with discernment to know the Lord’s guidance in all your decisions.