How to Know When Jesus Gives Direction

“How can you tell when Jesus is answering your prayer for wisdom?” It was a straightforward question in response to my challenge to pray before every decision for a month. My answer, “Keep praying until you feel comfortable with your decision” was simple and inadequate.

Some decisions require us to trust Jesus’ direction as he takes us out of our comfort zones. Sometimes Satan keeps us from feeling good about our decisions. In addition, there are times when the decision that feels good is the wrong one.

So how can we tell when Jesus is giving us direction and when it’s something else? Here are few checkpoints to help you determine when Jesus is answering your prayers for wisdom.

1. Jesus convicts but Satan condemns.
Jesus will point out attitudes and behaviors in our lives that he wants to help us change. Jesus inspires hope and confidence as we become more like him. Satan will accuse us of failing God constantly. He will heap on guilt and shame until we want to give up.

2. Jesus clarifies but Satan confuses.
Jesus helps us see our choices clearly. He burns off the fog and exposes the true issues in all our decisions. Satan confuses us with questions, doubts and half-truths. He makes it hard for us to think through our decisions.

3. Jesus confirms but Satan contradicts.
Jesus will always lead us to make decisions that line up with the Bible. He will help us study it and put its principles into practice. Satan will find subtle ways to contradict what the Bible teaches. He will try to convince you that you are the exception to the rules. “God’s laws and principles don’t apply to you.”

Trust Jesus to give you guidance as you pray before your decisions. If you need to grow, he will point out what he wants to help you do. If you are confused, he will clarify the issues for you. If you study your Bible, he will confirm its principles.

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