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THE Big Question Christians Ask
Chip Ingram
Walk Thru the Bible
"What is God's will for my life?"
Every time we wrestle with a big decision, it seems that if there were just some way to KNOW God's will, following that plan would be the easy part!
Obviously, God's will in some areas of our lives is very, very clear. Scripture is plain on morality, salvation, and brotherly love and service. But what about the gray areas, vague unknowns? Should I date? How about marriage? When? Which job should I take? Should I move? While God doesn't speak directly to these issues, He has provided clear guidelines that should inform our decisions.
First, we need to grasp two premises in order to discover God's will for our lives.
- God wants to lead us, even more than we want to be led! Psalm 25:12-14 promises that God will instruct us, and that He confides in those who fear Him. The understanding of God's will is not reserved only for the spiritually elite.
- God's will is good. He always has our best interest in mind. Romans 12:2 says His will for us is good, pleasing, and perfect.
Second, there are two aspects of God's will.
- There are general, moral guidelines for all believers. For example, we are to rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in EVERYTHING (I Thess. 5:18), live sexually pure lives (I Thess. 4:3), and be controlled by the Holy Spirit (Eph. 5:17-18).
- God's will can also be specific and individual. In Psalm 32:8 David wrote "God will instruct me in the way I should go," and Proverbs 16:9 tells us that although the mind of a man plans his way, the Lord directs his steps.
As you seek to develop a lifestyle of decision-making that honors God, I’d like to share 7 Principles to guide you through the process:
The Principle of Relationship
(John 15) Finding God's will is more "knowing a Who" than "discovering a what." We want a sign from heaven, or a formula to follow, but the key to wise decisions is a rich, abiding relationship with Jesus Christ!
The Principle of Obedience
(Mark 4:23-25) Be faithful to what God has already made clear, and He'll give you the grace to follow Him further. As we respond in obedience to the light He's already given, He gives more!
Most Recent User Comments
julsand
6/29/2007 6:32 AM
EXCELLENT ARTICLE!! The 7 principles listed, along with the scripture referrences, give an excellent direction for seeking answers. I love that the first principle listed is "Relationship". I keep finding that to be the most important element of spiritual growth and a quality life. Why did it take me so long to understand that? I have printed a copy of this article to keep in my Bible for future reference, or to share with someone who may benefit.
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