God’s will | Daily Encouragement

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2, NIV)

We cannot discern God’s will with an earth-bound mind.

An earth-bound mind conforms to the will and the ways of our world. An earth-bound minds cares more about what pleases others than what pleases God. It is a mind that is squeezed and pressured from all of the forces outside of us; what we hear and see.

A transformed mind is also informed by other sources, but instead of coming from the outside-in; it comes from the inside-out — as true transformation always does.

We can (and do) change our actions without changing our mind; but we cannot change our thinking without — eventually — witnessing a change in our deeds. A mind that is informed, and transformed, by the spirit of God will always know the will of God. – Luther

Tagged God's will, renewing your mind, the book of Romans

April 2

Maundy Thursday

“He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, ‘Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.’ An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.” (Luke 22:41-43, NIV)

God always answers the prayers of His children.

Sometimes, it is within the plan of God to deliver His child from peril or difficulty. To be sure, it is a gift beyond words to be delivered from illness, injury, and death. More times than we realize, God’s hand has delivered us from difficulties, danger, disease, and from death.

Yet, sometimes it is within the plan of God to deliver His child through the peril or the difficulty looming before us. Even here — perhaps, particularly here — we are not alone in our suffering. As God did for His only begotten Son in the crisis reflected in today’s scripture, God will also do for you when you allow Him to work through you for His purposes. He will give you evidence of His presence; and He will strengthen you with His strength!

Fear not! Whether from or through, God’s presence and God’s provision are always — always — ours when we confess: “Yet not my will, but Yours be done.” – Luther