three possible responses to GOD’s will…

we are looking at james in his letter in the new testament and how to handle the future.  one thing he says in chapter 4 verse 15 (niv) is, if it is the LORD’s will, we will live and do this or that.  now there are three possible responses to GOD’s will:

1.  i can make reference to it.  that’s what he’s saying here.  i admit that GOD has a will and i accept it, acknowledge it, make reference to it.

2.  i can show deference to it.  i really want GOD’s will and i accept it into my life.

3.  i can show preference for it.  more than anything else i want GOD’s will in my life.  what GOD wants – that’s my plans.  i deeply desire it.

proverbs 16.1 (niv), we may make our plans but GOD has the last word.

man proposes, GOD disposes.  proverbs 16.9, living bible, we should make plans – counting on GOD to direct us.

stop praying, “GOD bless what i’m doing.”  don't pray that anymore.  “GOD, i’ve made my plans, i’ve worked them all out now YOU bless them.”

instead pray, “GOD help me to find and do what YOU are blessing.”  GOD is doing a lot of fantastic things in the world.  i just want to be in on them.  “help me to do what YOU’re blessing.  i don’t want my plans.  i want YOUr plans in my life.  YOUr plans will provide fulfillment in my life.”

planning without GOD is the first mistake.  you overcome it by including GOD in your goal setting.

just a thought from the front porch…