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How do we recognize God’s stop signs?
Well, here are some checkpoints to help you determine if it’s time to stop. As you consider some plan or situation or project, ask yourself:
Is there anything about this that is not in line with God’s written Word?
There are times when we want to do something so badly, that we rationalize away obvious principles established in God’s Word. For example, you’re single and you’ve met someone you really would like to date, but it’s fairly obvious that he or she is not yet a believer, does not share your commitment to Jesus Christ. Stop and think about it: Where can this lead you but into heartache? The Bible says we are not to be unequally yoked together with unbelievers, and while dating is not an official “yoke,” it’s where they begin. You will marry someone you first date, so if you don’t date a non-believer, you’ve avoided that wrong choice.
Do you have peace in your spirit about this?
God’s will for our lives, while often challenging, will still give us that inner knowing and peace that this is the way we are to walk. If your spirit continues to be restless about this, then stop and wait. When in doubt, don’t! Stop and examine why you are doubting, and don’t move until those doubts are resolved.
Have you sought godly counsel and advice?
Proverbs 15:22 says, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” It is often very good to stop and seek counsel from an objective person who is knowledgeable and truly godly.
Are you willing to do God’s will no matter what it is?
So often we just want God to bless our initiatives. Ask yourself if you truly want only what God wants. You want to be able to truly say, “I only want to do God’s will, whatever it is.”
So, stop and checkup on yourself before you make any moves. You’ll be glad you did.