God's Will

“The Holy Spirit reveals his will for us through prayer, his Word, other godly people and circumstances.” (Experiencing God, Henry Blackaby). This is a truth about God. “The Counselor, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things” (John 14:26).  The Holy Spirit is your personal teacher. He is at work in you to confirm Scripture as your source of authority and truth. One of the challenges is that we must obey when we hear, as soon as we hear. The consequences are difficult to always know, but there will be missed blessings and probably some unpleasant circumstances. What do you do when you don’t know what to do? Wait for the Father, to speak through the Holy Spirit.

Jeremiah lived in a day when it was more common for God to speak audibly. He followed his direction to the “Potters House” where clay was made into useful vessels (Chap 18). God was speaking of Israel and each of us.  He is asking, “Are you in my hand?” (v.6).  Adjust your life so that you can do whatever he wants to do through you. Recall how in John 15 Jesus spoke of abiding or living in the vine, which is he. This is where we bear much fruit, for apart from him we can do nothing. God is always working and we need to be ready when he invites. Review how Abram and Moses followed his invitations. He accomplished through them what they could not do. His power was made perfect in weakness. Be moldable and remain in him.

I think you will find that life goes much better through God and our obedience and submission. We may plan but God guides our steps (Prov. 16).  Perhaps my most recent escapade was my attempt to retire. After less than two months my wife announced that I had failed retirement. That's a story in itself. But I sought the Lord and found Him directing my steps to hospital chaplaincy, my calling. It is no coincidence that I have spent more than 40 years in hospitals as a CEO and chaplain. Encouragement is one of my gifts, and the hospital is where I can use it daily or hourly.  I find great satisfaction in this work, because I am in God’s will. I know that God does not want us to ever retire. Yes, Scripture is clear on it. Perhaps we will not always work for a wage. Maybe we will be a mentor or volunteer where God leads us.  Remember, there is no better place to be than to be in God’s will.