A Process Of Faith
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8
Insight
What is God's will for my life?
No other question possesses the power to shut someone down quicker than this one. Trying to figure out God's prompting can be unnerving. Anytime we face an uncertain or uncomfortable situation, our natural inclination is to grasp for control. We begin to formulate God's call for our life based on our limited understanding. However, the Bible insists that our best thoughts don't hold a candle to those of God.
So, how do we figure out what is next without letting the 'oughts' and 'ifs' cause us to remain idle? It begins by understanding that insight is a process. Often there is no burning bush or audible voice of God letting us know for certain exactly what we should be doing. Finding God's will is a process of faith and a means of the heart. God promises us a lamp to guide our feet, not a floodlight to illuminate our way.
A statement like that is reassuring for some and spurs on curiosity, leading to a more profound sense of faith. For others, the unknown leaves them frustrated and defeated. For the process to work, we must stay engaged by reading scripture, praying, journaling, and having conversations with others who are also chasing after God's heart. If we want to understand His intent for our lives, we have to spend time with Him. God's presence provides us with perspective.
When it comes to His will, many times, we want to skip ahead to knowing what He wants us to do. We desire to fast forward past all of the mess in between. But, it is only in practicing His presence that we display trust and find clarity. By doing so, we get out of our heads and stop internalizing our relationship with God based on our circumstances, wants, and desires.
God's will always involves impacting others. He is calling us to be a people of action based on the relationship He has with us. We can't become so hung up on trying to find God's purpose for us that we miss what is going on right in front of us.
What God wants from us is to be continually on mission and stop being so concerned about the future and the details. He is leading each one of us to start doing something with the here and now. The most powerful tool God has given us for His mission is our story. Our story exists to make disciples.
Our mission starts in our surroundings. Right where we are. Right now. We have daily opportunities to advance the mission of God through our words and actions. Our next step is right in front of us. Do we have the courage to take it?
Reflection
How do you process God's movement in your life and what He is asking you to do?
Where do you currently find yourself wrestling with the 'oughts' and the 'ifs'?
Prayer
God, Your will for me is straightforward: to love You with all my heart, mind, and soul. And as I do so, let that love influence the way I interact with others. Yes, I selfishly desire all the details for my future – but, You call me to be obedient today. May I be observant of where You are calling me to respond. Do not let the uncertainty of my future prevent me from making a difference with the time I'm given today. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.
