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Single Minded
by Michelle Brinson
we wait for you;
your name and renown
are the desire of our hearts.
My soul yearns for you in the night;
in the morning my spirit longs for you.
Isaiah 26:8-9a NIV
"How can I know God's will for my life?"
I've asked this question so many times. I've also heard many of my friends pose the same question – especially when faced with a BIG decision like accepting a new job, getting married, moving to a new city, or buying a home.
I know there are times I wish God would speak to me in a loud booming voice and tell me specifically what His will is for me in a particular situation. But it doesn't work that way, does it?
It's not that I doubt God has a plan or purpose for my life – because I know He does.
Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
It's just that sometimes making big decisions can be really hard and I so desperately want to honor God with my decisions and ultimately my life… I fear I will mess up, make a mistake, and disappoint Him. Why can't He just tell me what He wants me to do?
Where do I turn?
I pray. I read His word. He speaks to me.
So… what does the Bible say about knowing His will?
Romans 12:2 NIV
I have learned two very important lessons when it comes to knowing His will. First, it's important to make sure that whatever I am asking for or considering doing is not something the Bible forbids. Secondly, it's important to make sure that whatever I'm asking for or considering doing will glorify God and will help me grow spiritually.
If these two things are true and God is still not giving me what I'm asking for, then it comes down to two things… either it's not His will for me to have whatever it is I'm asking for… or I need to wait a while longer for it.
Knowing His will is difficult. God rarely gives us that direct and specific of information. He allows us to make choices regarding those things. (Oh, the gift of free will.)The only decision God does not want us to make is the decision to sin or resist His will. God wants us to make choices that are in agreement with His will.
So, how DO you know what God's will is for you? If you are walking closely with the Lord and truly desiring His will for your life – God will place His desires on your heart. The key is wanting God's will, not your own.
Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness.
Delight yourself in the LORD;
And He will give you the desires of your heart.
Commit your way to the LORD,
Trust also in Him, and He will do it.
Psalm 37:3-5 NASB
If the Bible does not speak against it, and it can genuinely benefit you spiritually - then the Bible gives you the "permission" to make decisions and to follow your heart.
I know - it's not an easy answer. It requires prayer. It also requires developing a personal relationship with Jesus. Take time to get to know Him. The more time you spend with Him the easier it will be to hear His voice and to discern what His will is for you. I promise you, it's worth the investment.
Here's something to start with…
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV
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Michelle sees her marriage as a ministry and desires for it and herself to be used by God. She and her husband and son are active members of their church. She is also passionate about spreading the good news locally as well as internationally via mission trips to East Africa and wherever else the Lord leads.
Michelle is a talented writer and speaker who prays God will use her in sharing His hope and truths to those who are hurting and in need of love.
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