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Recap of 9/27/09:
1. Though circumstances are pointing Jacob and his family toward Egypt (God’s preservation and elevation of Joseph in Egypt, Pharaoh’s offer, famine in Canaan), Jacob needed the assurance of God’s word, which he gets, before he continues on from Beersheba into Egypt. Circumstances alone are not enough when determining the will of God.
2. Four scriptural observations concerning God’s will:
-before God’s will involves an action, it involves an attitude. 2 Corinthians 8:5
-renewing our minds is foundational to knowing God’s will. Romans 12:1,2; Hebrews 5:11-6:1a
-prayer is essential to knowing the will of God. Colossians 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
-the flesh (i.e. the sin nature) and Satan seek to deter us from the will of God. 1 Peter 4:2; 2 Timothy 2:24-26; 1 Thessalonians 2:18
3. Patrick Morley’s principles of effective decision-making:
-make decisions according to the Word of God. If your decision contradicts Scripture, it’s a bad decision.
-avoid foolish decision that test God. Don’t put yourself in a position which requires a miracle to bail you out.
-avoid decisions that reduce your worship and service to God. Don’t get caught up in the rat race and chase phony gods.
