Jul 13, 2017
Episode 86 How do we know the will of God?
How can we know the will of God? This is a question that is always
before us. It is especially before us when faced with a big
decision. But even in our daily lives, we want to do the will of
God in all things. Today we look again at God’s provision in this
matter. Perhaps the simple answer to this question is “to be led by
His Spirit” and that is true. But for this to be real in our lives,
we need to look more closely at some of the issues involved. Our
concepts, desires, and emotions often get in the way and the
pathway before us does not seem clear. We are complicated beings,
made in the image of God. Discerning what is of God and what is not
of God is often not easy. As we look at this subject and the
scriptures, our prayer is that we may see the ways of God more
clearly so that we may do the will of God in all things for His
purpose and glory.
• God is sovereign over all—Trust Him
o Nothing happens without His direct command or permission
o God has sovereignly given us the ability to choose
o God wants us to move in faith and depend on Him in all things
(John 15:5)
o God does not lead us into sin (James 1:12-18)
• Jesus Himself is the will of God (Eph. 1:9)
o Union with Christ by the Spirit is the foundation
o Our choice is to submit willing to His authority
o Our place is to lay down our life and to live His life by
faith
• God’s ultimate purpose is always the guiding light
o To know God in all things (John 17:3)
o To be prepared to dwell with God for eternity
o To be changed into His likeness (Rom. 8:29)
o To be a vessel of grace with others
• The Scriptures serve as our foundation for understanding (2 Tim.
3:16-17)
• The Holy Spirit makes the truth in scriptures alive and
applicable (John 14:26, 16:12-15)
• In the New Covenant He will write His word on our heart and mind
(Heb. 8:7-13)
o Heart (spirit, conscience, knowing)-- does the burden persist
o Mind (intellect) , scriptures, thoughts in the particular
situation
• Wisdom is from God as we see the need and ask (James 1:2-8)
o Counsel with others (Prov. 11:14, 15:22)
o Circumstances (discernment)
• Peace that passes all understanding (Phil. 4:6-7)
• Proving God in small things, leads to confidence in bigger
things
• Additional resources at http://www.ntchurchsource.com/
• Theme song “Will Your Anchor Hold” sung by J. Ashley Milne
• Comments and questions welcome. Email David@AnchorOfTruth.com