THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Wednesday, September 13, 2023

Lord, how will I know what your will is for me? All Christ followers should ask this question when facing life choices, especially those that could have uncertain consequences. “Which path should I take?” “Should I wait or go?” “It looks so right.”

Your will is always best for us. In his thesis to the early church, James addressed how to answer this question in all circumstances.

“But the wisdom from above [knowing God’s will] is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere” (James 3:17 NLT).

James knew first that God’s will is “pure,” in that it aligns with his Word, the sacred Scriptures. Lord, you emphasized studying your Word is crucial. How will we know what you say about life? Marriage? Love? Forgiveness? Do my actions agree with God’s Word? If it conflicts with the Word, that’s a big red flag. It is not pure.

Now, we’re tasked with choosing to either obey your Word, or ignore the warnings and plunge ahead in our actions, because deep down, that’s what we want.

Lord, you’ve seen how many times I chose the latter and lived to regret my rebellion, much like the psalmist in Psalm 32. The Book of Psalms, with its 150 psalms, is not complete. Make mine Psalm 151.

Without a doubt, one thing we know is your will. All have rebelled against you (Romans 3:23), but when we humble ourselves in repentance and ask forgiveness. it is your will to forgive and reconcile our relationship with you. That is grace. That is the pure Word of God.

Amen, Jesus.