How Can I Walk in God's Will - Pt. 1

Knowing and doing the will of God matters to those who know God. How to know God’s leading is the challenge. Few of us struggle with discerning God’s will in areas clearly commanded or clearly forbidden. But when we lack specific biblical directives, we must look to the general requirements for personal decision making. Although doing and being are inseparable, too often we focus on what God wants us to do when He is much more concerned about being or character. Being should always be the basis for doing!

This year, the newsletter (blog) will highlight 12 Biblical requirements to assist us in knowing and doing the will of God.

#1. BE HUMBLE

Psalm 25:9 “God guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way.” See also Isaiah 66:2; 1 Peter 5:5-6; Romans 12:3.

The two means for cultivating humility on a daily basis are prayer and study of God’s Word. When we pray and look to God’s Word, we are acknowledging our need for God’s strength and wisdom.

This emphasis permeates Scripture and reminds us of the need to yield to God in all decision making (Romans 12:1-2). All decision making should begin with a yielded heart – a heart controlled by a desire to please and honor God. This is the meaning behind James 4:13-16:
“Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and making money.’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’ As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil.”

#2. BE GRATEFUL

1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Many step out of God’s will because of discontentment. See also: Hebrews 13:5; Philippians 2:14-15.

When was the last time that you thanked the Lord for the food in your pantry, the clothes in your closet, the job you go to each day, the car that you drive and the family and friends you have? What about thanking God for providing for your needs each day? Yes, we do spend a lot of time praying for things, let’s make sure we are taking adequate time to thank God as well.

Remember the Lord. Remember who is in control. Remember His goodness in the past. Remember God’s closeness in the present. Remember His power for the future!