July 30, 2024 – Decisions, Decisions

Decisions, Decisions
July 30, 2024

DAILY PROVERB:

Proverbs 18:17-19
He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him. The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty. A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.

OUTLOOK ON THE IN BOOK:

    Decisions, decisions—they can drive you crazy. Who is going to make them? What makes a decision right? How do we know it’s right? Just the thought of two different ideas and having to decide between them has driven good friends far apart. Frequently, it is not the decisions that are made, but the decisions never made that cause the most division. It often arises when friends can’t agree on how to disagree. It may well be better for friends to sit down and agree on how a decision will be made before disagreement ever becomes the problem.

    In verse 18 the Bible says, “The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty.” In Bible times, the casting of lots was regarded as a fair and just method for resolving issues. It was believed that God, who is in control of all, would then determine the outcome Himself. The decision was considered to be God’s will, and no one could dispute it.

    Today, in our Church, we follow a similar process. When a dispute arises, we first search God’s Word for guidance while fervently praying for a clear understanding. Sometimes, God provides clarity, and a decision is reached at that point. If not, we then bring the matter before the Church Board, consisting of the Pastor, Deacons, and Trustees who were elected by the church to oversee such issues. If the matter remains unresolved, it is presented to the entire church membership, where each member has a voice in the decision. We firmly believe that God intervenes and ultimately determines the outcome through the collective wisdom of His body, the Church, and His decision is regarded as final.

THE WORD WALKING IN ME:

    Ultimately, we seek God’s will in all matters of our lives. Have you ever grappled with a decision in your life and longed to discern God’s will? First, pray and immerse yourself in God’s Word. Next, seek out godly counsel. Finally, let God make the decision, and accept His guidance.

What might you need God’s help with today?

IF YOU ARE JOURNALING:

Ask yourself, what are MY THOUGHTS concerning this Passage, and todays Devotion?

Do I find within this reading a CHALLENGE for my life?

What are one or two things I WILL DO today or this week to accept that CHALLENGE?

  

GOD TALKING TO ME: July 30, 2024

THROUGH THE BIBLE WITH A DAILY PROVERBS
  Isaiah 32 – Isaiah 37
  Proverbs 18:17 – 19

THROUGH THE BIBLE OLD & NEW TESTAMENT DAILY
  Job 35-38
  Acts 25