Title of the Study: Five Key Benefits of Reading Proverbs: #2 - Guidance for Decision-Making
Key Themes and Scriptures:
Trusting God over self-reliance.
Submitting decisions to God’s will.
Christ as the ultimate guide and the Way.
Key Scripture:
Proverbs 3:5–6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Explanation:
This passage urges us to release our grip on personal understanding and instead place full trust in God. Proverbs presents God as intimately involved in guiding the believer’s decisions. When we submit our ways to Him—without reservation—He promises to direct our paths, leading us into His purpose and blessing.
This wisdom is intensely practical. Whether it’s daily choices or life-altering decisions, Proverbs invites us to let God shape our direction.
Christ Connection:
In John 14:6, Jesus declares, “I am the Way and the Truth and the Life.”
Christ is not just the giver of direction but the direction itself. Following Him ensures we stay on the straight path God promises.
Commentary Insight (Charles Bridges):
“Self-sufficiency is the death of divine guidance. Faith must renounce sight… We trust not only in Him but with all our heart, without reserve.”
Three Scriptures that Highlight the Subject:
Psalm 32:8
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”
Ask: What is your understanding of this scripture?
Isaiah 30:21
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’”
Ask: What is your understanding of this scripture?
James 4:13–15
“Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city…’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow… Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’”
Ask: What is your understanding of this scripture?
Discussion Questions (Life Application):
What are some decisions in your life where you tend to lean on your own understanding?
How do you think submitting your ways to God could practically change how you make decisions this week?
Can you share a time when trusting God brought clarity or direction in a situation where you felt unsure?
Action Steps (Next Two Weeks):
Decision Journal: Keep a journal of key decisions you face. Before making any decision, pause, pray, and write down how you sense God guiding you.
Memorize Proverbs 3:5–6: Recite it daily before making important decisions.
Seek God’s Will First: For one specific area (finances, relationships, work), intentionally seek God’s guidance before acting. Write down what you sense and follow through.
Go Round the Room – Key Takeaway:
Ask each person: What is one key takeaway from today’s study that you can apply to how you make decisions?