PE. Thy testimonies are wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them. The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple. I opened my mouth, and panted: for I longed for thy commandments. Look thou upon me, and be merciful unto me, as thou usest to do unto those that love thy name. Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me. Deliver me from the oppression of man: so will I keep thy precepts. Make thy face to shine upon thy servant; and teach me thy statutes. Rivers of waters run down mine eyes, because they keep not thy law. (Psalms 119:129-136 KJV)
I ran across this article by Charles Stanley, giving some good advice as we seek ASSURANCE OF GOD’S WILL in our lives. As we seek His will, these are good questions, and Dr. Stanley suggested we read:
Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: (Ephesians 1:15-17 KJV)
There are plenty of God’s children who will pray with us for that spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him.
God does not "play games" with His children by veiling His will in mystery. Believers can be sure of His leading in any situation. When we need confirmation, the following questions will help clarify:
1. IS THIS DECISION CONSISTENT WITH GOD’S WORD? If we want to know His will, God's Word will indicate the best move. The passage may not mention our exact situation, but the principle will speak to our situation.
2. IS THIS A WISE DECISION? A choice may seem reasonable and even be pleasing emotionally, but the decision will stand long after present feelings have faded. We must consider consequences and long - term effects.
3. CAN I ASK GOD TO ENABLE ME? Contrary to popular opinion, believers can't ask the Lord for anything they want. A man in need of money, for example, cannot seek divine blessing on a shady deal. God promises to provide, but anything gained outside His plan will turn to ashes.
4. DO I HAVE GENUINE PEACE? We can talk and talk at God, but we cannot force peace. Regardless of the way we think or feel about a matter, God will not give us a tranquil heart before the time is right. Genuine peace includes His confirmation, a calm heart, and the affirmation of our conscience.
The goal of evaluating a situation by means of these questions is not to get to "YES!" but to honestly seek God's will. Prayerfully consider each query until you can say, "I know this is the Lord's plan for me."
- Dr.Charles Stanley
Amen, Hi, I just love this time of year, and love your blog too, sorry I have not been around much, trying to get back into the swing of blogging again, and visiting all my favorite blogs too. Have a great Saturday, and such a beautiful fall day here in Georgia. Hugs my friend.
ReplyDelete