​Introduction:
1. In Psalm 139 David explained in detail how well God knew him.
2. He concluded with the request in these verses.
3. In our lesson we are concentrating on the last part of this request in which David asked God to lead him.
4. Our study will lead us to make a similar request: "let us approach God for direction and leadership."
Discussion:
I. LET US APPROACH GOD FOR DIRECTION
A. We are assured that God will provide direction for those who follow the instructions given in
Proverbs 3:5-6.
B. To receive direction from God,:
1. we must avoid "leaning unto our own understanding"
a. Man's ways result in death (Proverbs 14:12; 16:25).
b. Man cannot direct his own steps (Jeremiah 10:23).
2. we must trust in the Lord with all our hearts and acknowledge Him in all our ways.
a. We must seek counsel from God when we make any plans, when we make any decisions, or when
we endeavor to do anything.
b. Seeking counsel from God involves:
1) searching His Word to learn His will (Psalm 119:105)
2) talking to Him through prayer, asking for wisdom (James 1:5).
C. God will direct the paths of those who follow these instructions.
II. LET US APPROACH GOD FOR LEADERSHIP
A. Leadership from God was very important to David (Psalm 139:24; 23:2-3).
B. We are assured that God will provide leadership for those who follow the instructions given in
Matthew 7:13-14.
C. To receive leadership from God,:
1. we must avoid the wide gate and the broad way
a. We must avoid them because they lead to destruction.
b. Unfortunately, many will allow themselves to be led to this end.
2. we must enter at the strait gate and travel the narrow way.
a. "Enter" implies effort on our part ("strive" -- Luke 13:24).
b. The "strait gate" is fixed, indicating that there are:
1) restrictions (Matthew 5:29-30)
2) requirements (Matthew 16:24).
c. The "narrow way" also indicates that there are limitations.
1) (John 14:6) Jesus is "the way" to the Father.
2) There are not many ways -- there is only one, and that way is narrow.
d. We must enter the "strait gate" and travel the "narrow way" because they lead to "life."
e. By approaching God for direction and leadership, we will among the "few."
Conclusion:
1. Let us adopt David's request in Psalm 139:23-24.
2. Let us approach God for direction and leadership by complying with the instructions given in
Proverbs 3:5-6 and Matthew 7:13-14.