April 10, 2016

How Can I Know What God Wants Me to Do?

Pastor: Shannon Ford Scripture: Ephesians 5:15–17

How Can I Know What God Wants Me To Do?
Ephesians 5:15-17

1) Does God really have a plan (will) for my life?

  • I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you. (Psalm 32:8)
  • Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
  • "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)

~ Not only does God have plans for each of us, but He wants to communicate those plans to us.

2) How does God communicate His plan to me?

a) Through His Word (Psalm 119:97-104)
b) Through the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:10-16)
c) Through Prayer (Romans 8:26-27)
d) Through Godly People (2 Samuel 12:1-11)
e) Through Circumstances (1 Corinthians 16:8-9)

3) What are the practical steps toward finding God’s will for my life?

  1. Surrender your life to Jesus Christ.
  2. Separate yourself from the world.
  3. Study God’s Word for guidance.
  4. Seek God’s direction in prayer.
  5. Search your options.
  6. Seek the counsel of Godly people.
  7. Submit to the leadership of the Holy Spirit.

4) What are the truths I need to remember about God’s will
for my life?

  • God isn’t in a hurry. (Don’t expect God to reveal His will for you next week until you practice it for today.)
  • God’s will is not always easy. (We should seek Christ-like character more than comfort and convenience.)
  • The will of God and the Word of God are inseparable. (The Bible is full of God’s clear commands that offer us direction for most of life’s decisions).
  • God guides His people moment by moment. (It is not His way to give more light on the future than we need for the present.)

“To know the will of God is the greatest knowledge. To do the will of God is the greatest achievement. Knowing and obeying God’s will is the key to a victorious Christian life.”
(George Truett)