Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen”
Acts 1:24
Yesterday, we began a conversation about how to position ourselves to be led by God. We used the vacancy among the disciples after Judas Iscariot’s death as a case study, learning from the early Apostles’ process of finding God’s will in selecting a new member for the apostolic ministry. Specifically, we focused on the importance of storing God’s word in our hearts.
Today, let’s explore another tool: prayer.
Notice that as part of their process for selecting a new apostle, the disciples gathered together and prayed fervently. More importantly, look at the content of their prayer ‘they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen” (Acts 1:24)
Their prayer reflected their dependence on God’s omniscience and sovereignty. They acknowledged God’s all-knowing nature and appealed to His wisdom in selecting the right candidate to fill the vacancy. This passage serves as another powerful reminder that prayer is essential if we truly seek God’s guidance on a decision.
As believers, we are called to follow the example of the early disciples by prioritising prayer in all aspects of our lives, especially during times of decision-making and uncertainty.
We often rely on our own understanding and reasoning when faced with difficult choices or challenges. However, the Scriptures remind us to “trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding, but to acknowledge Him in all our ways, and He will direct our paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Just as the apostles sought God’s wisdom through prayer, we too must cultivate a lifestyle of prayerful dependence on Him. Instead of trusting in our limited understanding, let us commit our plans and decisions to the Lord in prayer, confident that He will guide and lead us in the right direction.
Heavenly Father, I come before you with a heart open to your leading and guidance. Like the early disciples, I recognize my need for your wisdom and insight in every decision I make. Teach me to seek your will in prayer, trusting in your perfect understanding and sovereign plan for my life. Grant me the discernment to recognize your voice and the courage to follow where you lead. In Jesus’ name.
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