Ask Before Action
I can be just a bit set in my ways and “headstrong”. If I set out to do something, I want to press on until it’s complete. Being “headstrong” is not always a positive attribute. Those who are headstrong don’t really care if what they are doing is unwise. They are bent on doing it. I think it’s wise to ask for wisdom and counsel before jumping into a situation that can harm you, those you love or lead.
The Israelite people went through a period without a king and they sort of did what they thought was right. The tribe of Dan was trying to take some land from The Promised Land. They apparently were last in securing a place for their family tribe to settle. They explored just beyond the hill country of Ephraim. Check this out…
2 So the Danites sent five of their leading men from Zorah and Eshtaol to spy out the land and explore it. These men represented all the Danites. They told them, ‘Go, explore the land.’
So they entered the hill country of Ephraim and came to the house of Micah, where they spent the night. 3 When they were near Micah’s house, they recognized the voice of the young Levite; so they turned in there and asked him, ‘Who brought you here? What are you doing in this place? Why are you here?’
4 He told them what Micah had done for him, and said, ‘He has hired me and I am his priest.’
5 Then they said to him, ‘Please enquire of God to learn whether our journey will be successful.’
6 The priest answered them, ‘Go in peace. Your journey has the Lord’s approval.’ (Judges 18:2-6 NIV)
I’m not sure of the backstory on this priest. He doesn’t appear to have the full approval of God, but he sure is acting like it.
I think it’s wise to ask the Lord before doing anything.
I think it’s wise to ask the Lord for wisdom and insight.
I shouldn’t simply ask for God’s approval over something that I’ve already decided. I should seek His insight and wisdom before doing anything.
I’m thankful that I don’t have to go before a priest to seek out the Lord. He made a way by sending His son that I now have direct access to the Lord. I can talk with at any time and in any place. He will give direction, wisdom and insight IF I will learn to listen to Him.
I don’t believe the Lord ever calls me to do something that is direct conflict with His Word. I believe His Word is true. I believe His Word is relevant to my life today. I want to have conversations daily about what the next steps look like.
Pressing On!
Dwayne