Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – July 10, 2015
I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death. Philippians 3:10
Most of the time God’s will is just doing the next right thing. However, some life transitions like career change, marriage, education or discerning the best choice require more intense prayer, thought and input from others. Though difficult at times, I am learning the Lord’s will is what’s best for all parties involved. “Trust and obey Jesus” is the short version of how the Holy Spirit leads my life along His best path. Below are ideas I seek to employ in following God’s will.
Be Consistent with Scripture
The Bible is very clear on many issues. Tell the truth, especially when it costs us to be honest. Be kind and compassionate to those we encounter in everyday life. Work hard, love God, hate sin, love people and serve selflessly. Overcome self-righteousness with humility, gratitude and generosity. When we are unsure of what to do—we can be sure the Scripture has something to say. The Bible is our love letter from the Lord instructing how to follow His heart. Know His Word.
“You have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15).
Confirm With Counsel
If not careful, we can selfishly interpret the Scripture to support our own agenda. We need objective people who will tell us what we need to hear, not what we want to hear. Most of the time our spouse is accurate in their assessment, because they have to live with the consequences of our decisions. They are the most affected in the outcomes of what we do. Thus, we keenly listen to those who love us the most. Wise counsel protects us from following our foolish desires.
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22).
Inner Peace Within Outer Conflict
Peace within does not guarantee peace without. But when our mind is unsure, our peaceful heart can harbor confidence. When circumstances around us swirl out of control, we can lean on the peaceful control of Jesus Christ over our life. If we lack peace regarding a job opportunity, we are shrewd to let go of the temptation. Otherwise, we we may miss the Spirit’s protection from a dysfunctional organization. When God’s peace exceeds our understanding, we are wise to pass on unhealthy opportunities. Inner peace is the fruit of following the Lord’s will. He protects us.
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7).
Know Christ
When we know Christ, we know His will for our lives. What does it mean to know Christ? Similar to getting to know a new friend, it takes time, patience and forgiveness. To know Christ is to know His heart. To know His heart is to understand His ways. To know Christ is to love and trust Him. To love and trust Christ is to obey and follow His ways. Prayer points out the proper path to journey with Jesus. The closer we walk with God—the easier it becomes to discern His will. As we know Him in our fellowship of suffering and His resurrection power— Christ reveals His will. Love does not hide its intentions from its intended. Jesus loves for us to know His will!
“Yes, furthermore, I count everything as loss compared to the possession of the priceless privilege (the overwhelming preciousness, the surpassing worth, and supreme advantage) of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord and of progressively becoming more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him [of perceiving and recognizing and understanding Him more fully and clearly]. For His sake I have lost everything and consider it all to be mere rubbish (refuse, dregs), in order that I may win (gain) Christ (the Anointed One)” (Philippians 3:8, Amplified Bible).
Prayer: Heavenly Father, teach me to know You and understand Your will for my life.
Related Readings: Proverbs 8:14, 22:20; Isaiah 38:7, 53:10; 1 Timothy 5:15; 1 Peter 2:15
Post/Tweet this today: Love does not hide its intentions from its intended. #knowGod’swill #wisdomhunters
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I’m so grateful each day for your devotional, thank you. I noticed your in Roswell Ga, do you pastor a church?
If so, I would love to know the name and address. Thank you.
Dear Christine,
Thank you so much for your kind words. We are thankful that you are being blessed by the daily devotionals.
Boyd does not pastor a church but does attend North Point Community Church with his family. The Pastor, as well as Boyd’s friend, of North Point Community Church is Andy Stanley.
On occasion, Boyd does speak at different churches and his speaking engagements are posted on our website http://www.wisdomhunters.com.
We are thankful that your are a fellow wisdomhunter and look forward to hearing from you again, Christine.
Blessings to you and yours,
Gwynne