Many Christians wonder about discerning God’s will for their lives, sometimes resorting to methods like casting lots or “setting out a fleece” for a sign. However, these practices can be problematic and even dangerous. The Bible doesn’t prescribe casting lots as a regular means of decision-making for believers today. In the Old Testament, this practice was strictly regulated within the priesthood, involving sacred objects like the Urim and Thummim. The casting of lots in the book of Acts to choose a replacement for Judas was a unique event guided by the Holy Spirit. We don’t find a biblical principle commanding or even suggesting this for everyday decisions.
Seeking direct, immediate revelation through such methods can be seen as tempting God. While God did provide supernatural revelation in Scripture, the canon of Scripture is now closed. We are not privy to the same kind of direct revelation given to biblical figures. Instead, we are called to base our lives and decisions on the teachings of Scripture. The Bible provides the principles and wisdom we need to navigate life’s choices.
Relying on feelings or subjective experiences rather than biblical principles can lead to spiritual confusion. A humorous anecdote about a curate who waited for the Spirit’s leading to shave illustrates this point. The bishop wisely advised him to shave daily as a matter of principle, rather than seeking supernatural guidance for trivial matters.
Casting lots or seeking signs can be a form of spiritual laziness, replacing reliance on God’s Word with a reliance on mystical experiences. Such practices can also lead to superstition and a distorted understanding of God’s will. We should focus on studying Scripture, praying for wisdom, and seeking counsel from mature Christians as we make decisions.
True discernment comes from a deep understanding of biblical truth and a willingness to submit our lives to God’s will as revealed in His Word. We must be cautious of practices that resemble magic or divination, relying instead on the solid foundation of Scripture for guidance in all aspects of life. Our focus should be on living according to God’s revealed will, not seeking extraordinary signs or experiences. A mature Christian life is characterized by obedience to God’s Word and trust in His providence, not by seeking shortcuts to divine guidance.