Anyone living in this world is confronted daily with the issues of life. Some of these issues may be normal experiences of human beings while some occur suddenly or unexpectedly. Whether usual or unusual, many of these issues of life require decisions, actions to be made. It is at such moments that the limitations of man's knowledge becomes evident. Certainly the knowledge of man is grossly limited concerning the past, present and future of both himself and the situation around him.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO INQUIRE FROM THE LORD? (Num. 27:5)
The word inquire as defined in the dictionary means to ask someone for information. On arriving a city, a traveller may inquire or seek information from people as regards how he can get to his destination. A student in class may seek to know from his teacher the proper books he may need so as to excel in his study.
However there are some issues of life for which answers may not be readily available. Also in some of such situations answers based on man's knowledge become inadequate and at times complicate matters when followed.
The believer is therefore expected to cultivate the habit of inquiring from the Lord in all situation of life, inclusive of matters we consider or complex as humans. It is good for us to know his mind and follow it.
Therefore to inquire from the Lord means asking the Lord for direction on what to do in a particular situation. It involves seeking information from him concerning a particular situation.
HOW DO WE INQUIRE FROM THE LORD?
Some of the ways we may inquire from the lord include.
1.Studying the word of God
God's mind is revealed in his word , the holy bible. In 2 Tim. 3:16-17, it says that "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrines, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works". As we search the scriptures, we will find guidance on matters relating to general issues of life and our christian practice.
2.Communion with God in prayers
Prayer is meant to be a two way communication between God and the believer. In prayer we speak to God and he speaks to us. Therefore we can receive directions from him when we sincerely open our hearts to him in prayers.
3.Being sensitive to the holy spirit
The holy spirit promised by the Lord resides today in the believer and in his church. A major benefit of the presence of the holy spirit with us in that he will teach and guide us into all truth and will bring to our remembrance all that the lord said.
4.Attending christian meetings/fellowships
The meetings or fellowship been prescribed or referred to here are not the common " ego-boosting" gatherings today in which leaders promote themselves and their families. The meeting being referred to are those ones in which God's name and presence are held in reverence and the holy spirit has the pre-eminence.
5.Seeking counsel from Christian leaders/brethren
The assumption here is that the person being approached for counsel knows and lives by the word of God, but divine guidance is necessary. Experienced believers may be able to give counsels that are in line with the word of God to others and by so doing guide people in the way and will of the Lord.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR THE BELIEVERS TO INQUIRE FROM THE LORD?
When an individual becomes a christian, his life is totally surrendered to the Lord Jesus. The implication is that he makes Christ his example as he lives in this world. Truly we become sons of the FATHER and equally true also in the fact that we become slaves of the MASTER. As sons we have access to the FATHER and as slaves we yield our will to his own.
Therefore, it becomes important that we inquire from him as we make choices, decisions and embark on actions in this life. Our aims, desires, aspirations etc should not be seen to be conflicting with his own. When we inquire from him, such conflicts will be avoided.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF INQUIRING FROM THE LORD?
There are many benefits that follow when we sincerely inquire from the lord, seek his counsel and allow him work out his will in our lives. Some of these benefits are:
- Peace (Isa. 26:3)
- Joy
- Personal satisfaction from doing God's will.
- Success and victory.
- Guidance on life issues.
So the believer ought to cultivate the habit of inquiring from the lord in all issues of life. The consequences of not seeking God's counsel on issues can be grave. Let us acknowledge that we are limited in knowledge and on our own we do not know enough to give us best in life.
Therefore we must learn to look up to God for direction and guidance in all situations and allow him work out his work in our lives. Great benefit awaits us if we do this.