Being in God’s will is the sweet spot for life. It’s the best place to be because God knows what is best for us and he sustains us in the best way as we remain in him.
Sometimes we wonder what God’s will is in specific situations. We ask him for direction. We scour the Bible for applicable verses. We ask others pray for our discernment. Sometimes, though, we first go to others before bringing our needs to the Lord. We forget that humans, with all our good intentions, have limited perspective. God wants us to seek him first.
In the past, God’s chosen people would have to approach him through a priest. Now, our redeemer Jesus is our great high priest. Isn’t it amazing that Jesus, though perfect, can empathize with our weaknesses and relate to our temptations? Therefore, in our times of need, we can approach him in confidence to receive his mercy and grace (Hebrews 4:14-16). He gives us what we need.
Sometimes it can be hard to accept what God gives us. Being in his will does not mean things will be easy. We often don’t realize the difficulties it will bring, the mindset shift it necessitates, nor the timing that isn’t ours. Following Jesus does not align with the ways of the culture.
What does being in God’s will mean?
The apostle Paul provides some aspects of God’s will for us: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 NIV). By doing these things, we are demonstrating to God a posture of worship, a constant connection to him, and grateful, humble heart. Our spiritual eyes are open to seeking our Father.
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength” (Mark 12:30 NIV, letter L in Do LAPS!). This is all-encompassing, isn’t it? And loving God translates to obeying him – doing his will.
How do we discern God’s will?
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing, and perfect will” (Romans 12:2 NIV). As believers, we are new creations in Christ! “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8 NIV). To this end, we are to renew our mind by acknowledging our sins and repenting of them, filling our mind with God’s truths and living in the ways that honor him. As an act of worship, as we immerse ourselves in God’s Word it will fill our heart. The Holy Spirit brings it to mind when we need it – to teach us, encourage us, and correct us (2 Timothy 3:16). Oh, how God loves us!
‘Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus – and be in the sweet spot of his will.
Fill your heart with joy and thanks and your mind with prayer using a Heart Training book!