This post is written by Bob Wilson as a companion for Unit 29, Session 2 of The Gospel Project for Adults, Volume 10: From Many People to One People (Winter 2023-24).
We all face important decisions that can greatly impact our lives and the lives of those around us. Whether it’s deciding on a career path, choosing a spouse, or making financial decisions, as Christ’s disciples, seeking God’s will in making important decisions is crucial. In Acts 1:12-26, we see an example of how the early church sought God’s will in replacing Judas as one of the Twelve Apostles. From their example, we can learn valuable lessons about how to seek God’s will in our own decision-making processes.
Seek God in Prayer
The first step in seeking God’s will is prayer. Acts 1:14 (CSB) tells us that the disciples “all were continually united in prayer.” They recognized that they needed God’s guidance and wisdom to make the right decision, and so they turned to prayer as their first course of action. In our own lives, we must also turn to prayer when seeking God’s will. We must approach God with humility and a willingness to listen to His voice.
Study God’s Word for Truth
The second step in seeking God’s will is relying on Scripture. Acts 1:20-22 tells us that the disciples used Scripture to guide their decision-making process. They recognized the importance of being rooted in God’s Word, and they allowed it to inform their decisions. In our own lives, we must also turn to Scripture as a guide for our decision-making processes. We must be diligent in our study of God’s Word, seeking to understand His commands and His plan for our lives.
Seek Out Wise Counsel
The third step in seeking God’s will is seeking wise counsel from other disciples. Acts 1:15-26 tells us that Peter sought the advice of other disciples in making a decision. The apostles recognized that they didn’t have all the answers, and so they turned to others for guidance. In our own lives, we must also seek wise, godly counsel from others when making important decisions. We must surround ourselves with people who are grounded in God’s Word and who can offer us wisdom and advice.
Step Out in Faith
The fourth step in seeking God’s will is being willing to take action. Acts 1:23-26 tells us that the disciples didn’t just pray and seek advice —they also took action. They chose Matthias to replace Judas, and they did so with confidence that they were following God’s will. In our own lives, we must also be willing to take action when we believe that God is leading us in a particular direction. We must be willing to step out in faith and trust that God will guide us as we move forward.
Through prayer, reliance on Scripture, seeking wise counsel, and being willing to take action, we can approach our decision-making processes with confidence that we are following God’s will. May we always seek God’s guidance and wisdom as we navigate the complexities of life, and may we be willing to trust in his plan for our lives. Knowing that He loves us and in Christ has blessed us with every spiritual blessing we need (Ephesians 1:3).
Bob Wilson is the lead pastor of First Baptist Church in Meridianville, Alabama. He and his wife, Christa, have six children.
