CENTRAL THOUGHT
Following God’s direction brings His plans and purpose to fulfillment in one’s life.
Text: Proverbs 3:5-7: John 14:26
INTRODUCTION
God has a plan for every child of His. Jeremiah 29:11 states, “For I know the thoughts that I think towards you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end”. In order to fit into God’s plans for our lives, it is very important that we follow His directions.
Following God’s direction involves believing and obeying His word, depending and trusting absolutely upon him, knowing that He will never lead us astray.
The implication of following His direction is that we should be ready to accept His will in all situations knowing that His overall purpose is to make all things work together for our good. His plans and purpose are the best for us. The believer who willingly follows God’s direction enjoys His peace, joy, etc. as he daily waits upon Him to accomplish His purpose in his/her life.
| LESSON OBJECTIVES
The objectives of this study are:
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BIBLE TRUTH
Q1. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO FOLLOW GODS DIRECTION?
In life generally, there are some avenues for seeking direction especially in the matters that are physical and have no eternal value. For example, a stranger arriving a city may trace or find his way through the city by following the direction provided in the city map. Also, parents may be able to direct their children on issues based on their previous experiences. There are moments where human beings depend on their senses to provide direction. Yet there are some who resort to occult mediums for spiritual directions. However, because of the imperfections of man, relying on self for direction does fail and, in some situations, bring disastrous consequences. The Lord God Almighty clearly condemns any form of resort to occult mediums for directions (Deut. 18:9-14).
God is the only One who can provide true and absolutely dependable direction through life. Following His directions means we are willing to pattern our lives after His own way. It implies that where there is a “conflict” between what we want or desire to do and what He says, desires or wants us to do, we are willing to submit to His own way. In following Gods direction, we should be willing to obey His word and make His will our own will.
Q2. WHAT ARE THE AREAS IN WHICH WE NEED GODS DIRECTION?
Gods direction is needed in all directions of our life. There are many decisions we make over which we need Gods guidance. Believers need to make decisions as regards choice of career, life partner, where to live, the type of car to purchase, purchase of land, building projects etc. As simple as these matters appear, mistakes made in terms of wrong decisions may be disastrous. Therefore, we need to follow Gods direction by applying His principles in making our decisions.
Q3. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHARACTERISTICS OF DIVINE DIRECTION?
Many factors characterize Divine directions. A major fact is that Gods leading is always in line with his scriptures (Ps.119:11, 105). He will never give us revelations, impressions or directions outside His word. Our thoughts, actions etc. must be weighed in line with His word. His direction/ leading produces peace; even in situations where things are not clear at the beginning, peace will ultimately be enjoyed if truly the Lord is leading. Gods leadings or guidance is also always characterized by His love (1Jn 4:18, 16). His love for us made Him to give us His son and through him He will freely give us all things (Rom.8:32) Gods direction/leading is also on a step by step basis. As said by someone “He is never too late He is always on time”. Finally, God’s will is also characterized by His steadfastness. He steadfastly leads us into His will.
Q4. WHAT IS GODS PROVISION FOR DIVINE DIRECTION?
In the bible God has made provision for us to be directed. He uses several means to bring His direction to His people. The word of God is one provision He has made for our direction. A believer must study, believe and obey the Bible. His word remains a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Ps. 119:105). It is the means by which we have our way cleansed and when we hide it in our hearts we are kept from sinning against God (Ps. 119:9-11)
The Holy Spirit is always there to give us direction. When we walk in the spirit, we will not fulfil the desires of the flesh(Gal.5:16). The Lord promised to send us the Holy Spirit who will lead, direct and guide us in all areas of our lives. He will bring to our remembrance always the teachings of the Lord (Jn. 14:26; Acts.13: 1-2). Every believer must cultivate the habit of being sensitive to the Holy Spirit.
God has also made provision for us to be directed through His witness or impressions upon our heart / inner man/ inner spirit man(1Cor.2:11-14). God also uses His instruments (angels, prophets brethren etc.) to show us His direction. (Acts 8:26; 11: 27-30; 12: 1-14; 2Chronicles 20:20). God also directs us through divine revelation in form of dreams, trance, visions etc. (Joel 2:28; Acts 10: 1-20) However it must be emphasized that every impression, dream, vision, counsel by men, or angel must be in line with His word. God will not say or do anything different from what is written in his word.
Q5. WHAT ARE BLESSINGS OF FOLLOWING GODS DIRECTION?
There are many blessings in following the direction of God. When we follow His direction, we are assured of Gods backing and security. (Ex.23:20; 23; Isa. 43:1-4; 1Thess. 5:24). His blessings accompany us when we pay we heed to him and follow his Direction (Deut.28:1-4; 32:8-14). There is guaranteed profit in life and will not be in want (Isa. 48: 17; Ps23:1). Also, when we follow his Direction are rendered powerless (1Sam23:4; Ps 23:5); doors will be open to us and things will ultimately work out in our favor(Isa 10: 27;45: 1-3; Rom 8:28)
DAILY LIVING APPLICATION:
God has made provision to direct us daily as we walk with him it is not his desire. The people who are groping in darkness, unsure of what we’re doing or where we’re going. He has made provision to direct us by the leading of the Holy Spirit and by his written word. He can also use angels/ revelation/ dream / vision/ men to direct us, but all these must be in line with His will and purpose as written in His word. it pays to follow God’s Direction. Although following he’s Direction in some instances/ situations may attract trials and persecutions we must have a hold on to his will realizing that ultimately, he will make all things work together for our good.
MEMORY VERSE:
Psalm 32:8 – ” I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go; I will guide thee with mine eye”.