Knowing God's will for my life has always been at the forefront of all my thoughts and actions. Constantly questioning, is this where God wants me, what does God want me to do in this situation, or in the grander view of life itself? I've struggled with knowing the perfect will of God for my life. I want to know the "big picture" before I start. I need a list and a plan. But, that's not how God works.
Romans 12:1-2 "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
This verse was memorized by the discipleship class from my youth group days. My youth pastor did a wonderful job of getting the word in us, growing us in God. When I first memorized this verse, I was in a stage in life that I was trying to learn as much about God as I could. I wanted to be transformed by his word as verse two says. However, as I've been meditating on this verse over the past few months, I've focused on the second part of this verse : "that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
When we spend time in God's word, allowing it to transform us, then we will be able to discern God's will for our lives. He's there, waiting for us to grasp on to Him and His word so He can lead us and guide us into His perfect will.
We won't just accidentally fall into God's will by being at the right place at the right time. We need to know His word to know His will for us. Renew your mind, know your destiny. This is going to be my word for a while as the renewing process takes time and effort. I believe God's word is rich with vision, provision, instruction, life and hope.
Have you been questioning God about your next step, future, or the grand plan? Consider hiding the word in your heart. Your spirit will be more in tune with the Holy Spirit when you have the word in you. We know for sure that God will never lead us to do something that is contrary to his word. We also know that He has given us spiritual gifts to be used for His glory. What are your spiritual gifts? How can you use them for Him, either at your local church, in small group, or even in your community? That is always a good place to start.
I guarantee, once you step out in faith to do something for Him, you will know if it's God's will for you. This is my testimony on this subject. About a year ago, I was really struggling with what God would have me "do". I was faithful to going to church and small group, but I really wanted more. I ran into a friend who is the director of a local non-profit. She needed volunteers for their Christmas outreach, and I was available for a couple of days to do that. Once I was there, I instantly knew that was where God wanted me to serve. See, I'm not gifted in working with children, music, or many other church operations, but I saw the need at Lighthouse and knew I had a gift that could be used there.
After my couple of days around Christmas, I started volunteering there one day a week while my youngest was in pre-school. My "job" was to work the front desk, create flyers and other office related things, and it was right up my alley. It was the first time in years that I really knew I was right exactly where God wanted me to be. I wish I could explain all of this right in front of you. You could see that I have tears in my eyes because of His goodness to me, and because of His faithfulness to lead me. All I had to do was get in His word, be still and listen to His leading.
From the archives (before blogging) journal entry dated 2/1999:
God has provided resources and the ability for us to make responsible decisions regarding His will for our lives.
1. God has provided His general will through His word. We know through His word that we are called to love and lead people to Jesus, not ourselves.
2. Prayer is vital for knowing God's will. Prayer time is not just us communicating with God our needs, but Him communicating to us His will. When you pray, you must allow time for God to talk to you, too. Matthew 7:7 - Ask, seek and knock and it will be given, you will find, and it will be opened.
3. Seek out godly counsel. God has gifted men and women to counsel others in life. This is not someone who will tell you what to do, but instead, someone who will help you see the wisdom in your own choice as you follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.
4. Life circumstances will help you realize God's purpose for your life. Sometimes we end up where we are by our own choices, but sometimes God is leading us right where we are. We can look back and see His orchestration throughout our lives.
5. The Holy Spirit will help you know the will of God for your life by the peace it brings.
From the archives (before blogging) journal entry dated 2/1999:
God has provided resources and the ability for us to make responsible decisions regarding His will for our lives.
1. God has provided His general will through His word. We know through His word that we are called to love and lead people to Jesus, not ourselves.
2. Prayer is vital for knowing God's will. Prayer time is not just us communicating with God our needs, but Him communicating to us His will. When you pray, you must allow time for God to talk to you, too. Matthew 7:7 - Ask, seek and knock and it will be given, you will find, and it will be opened.
3. Seek out godly counsel. God has gifted men and women to counsel others in life. This is not someone who will tell you what to do, but instead, someone who will help you see the wisdom in your own choice as you follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.
4. Life circumstances will help you realize God's purpose for your life. Sometimes we end up where we are by our own choices, but sometimes God is leading us right where we are. We can look back and see His orchestration throughout our lives.
5. The Holy Spirit will help you know the will of God for your life by the peace it brings.
Be blessed friends!
