Are you being faithful, or just being careful?
In this message, we begin a new series called Hands Free by naming a tension most of us live in but rarely talk about – the space between trust and wisdom. Many of us want to follow God faithfully while also making responsible decisions, but when clarity is incomplete and risk feels real, that space can feel unsettling. So how do we know when wisdom is guiding us, and when fear might be quietly shaping our choices?
This opening message lays the foundation for the entire series by reframing what biblical wisdom actually is. Rather than reducing wisdom to certainty, outcomes, or perfect clarity, Scripture shows us wisdom as a posture before God rooted in reverence and dependence. From there, trust becomes movement – not reckless, but faithful – even when the full picture is not yet visible. If you have ever prayed, listened, weighed your options, and still felt unsure, this message invites you to slow down and let Scripture speak. Watch the full message to explore how faith is often formed on the road between trust and wisdom, not after everything is resolved.
If you missed the live service or want to reflect further, you can watch the full message above anytime after. We’ve also included discussion questions to dig deeper into the message and a handout with fill-ins to guide your reflection. You can find the handout by clicking the “Download” button above. Whether you watch this on your own or share it with your small group, we hope this message encourages you.
Discussion Questions
- Where in your life right now do you feel caught between wanting to trust God and wanting more clarity before you move forward?
- How do you personally tend to define wisdom when you are making decisions, and how does that compare with how Scripture describes wisdom in this message?
- Can you think of a time when waiting felt wise, but looking back you wonder if fear may have been shaping that waiting?
- What does it look like for you to come boldly to God while still holding reverence for who He is and who you are in relation to Him?
- How do you usually recognize the difference between healthy discernment and self-protection when you are facing a difficult choice?
- What emotions tend to surface in you when you sense God inviting you to take a step without having the full picture?
- How does the idea that wisdom is about posture before God rather than certainty about outcomes change the way you think about decision-making?
- In what ways do you see fear borrowing the language of wisdom in your own thought patterns or conversations?
- What helps you stay attentive to God when guidance unfolds gradually rather than all at once?
- What would it look like this week to move forward in trust while remaining grounded in reverence and dependence on God, even if the next step feels small?
