“In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God. And when day came, he called his disciples and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles – Luke 6:12
Jesus spent all night in prayer to the Father before he chose his twelve disciples.
It is reasonable to assume from this passage that Jesus was receiving insights from the Father on whom to call while he was praying.
The Christian life is a dynamic relationship with Jesus. We often turn it into a life based only on Biblical principles. The Bible is full of God’s kingdom principles. If you apply them to every area of your life, it is very good! But there is more! If you rely only on his kingdom principles and commandments, but you fail to cultivate a relationship with him, you have missed it all!
Keep in mind the stern words of Jesus:
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter into the kingdom of heaven—only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. On that day, many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, didn’t we prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many powerful deeds in your name?’ Then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you. Go away from me, you lawbreakers!’” – Matthew 7:21-23
You can do all the right things without having a relationship (of love, trust, and obedience) with Christ. But in the end, they amount to nothing.
For believers in Christ, it is not a problem to choose what is right and avoid what is wrong as the Word of God prescribes. For example, honor your father and your mother. You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not offer false testimony against another. You must not desire what belongs to another. (from Deuteronomy 5:6-21)
It is when choices are both good or what is before us is morally neutral.
Whom should I choose as my disciples?
Even though the Scriptures are not explicit, Luke 6:12 implies that Jesus took the matter to the Father in prayer. He needed the Father’s insights.
You can enjoy a dynamic, interactive walk with God as you seek his face (presence) and his leading and guidance in every area of your life.