"Discovering Your True Purpose: How to Navigate Your Initial Perceptions"

Today I wanted to explore the topic of God's will and unravel what it truly means for our lives – as well as, dispelling any misconceptions along the way.

Before we delve into today's message, take a moment to reflect:

        •       What is your initial perception of God's will for your life?

Feel free to ponder this quietly as we prepare to explore this aspect of our faith which will lead to discovering your true purpose and how to navigate your initial perceptions.

When contemplating God's will in our lives, our perception might be skewed. Previously, my thoughts centered on career, finances, and romantic relationships – a common focus for many. Yet, delving into scripture reveals that God's will surpasses these concerns. While He indeed has plans for these aspects, His primary emphasis lies in spiritual transformation, not just a predetermined life plan. We as humans always like to think of things in physical terms, while God thinks in spiritual terms.

Our focus, today, will center on specific verses, with a primary emphasis on studying the words found in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

”Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.“

If we examine those words from 1 Thessalonians, it is clear that God's will is not merely a secret plan for our lives; rather, it is an ongoing process of internal conditioning for our hearts. And as we align ourselves with His Word and surrender to His guidance, our hearts are transformed to reflect His divine purpose and love.

In these verses, we uncover a guide for navigating life's journey. The call to "rejoice always" invites us to embrace joy as a constant companion, regardless of the twists and turns that unfold. "Pray continually" serves as a beckoning to maintain an unbroken connection with God, fostering a spirit of continuous communication with the source of all wisdom and strength.

Furthermore, the injunction to "give thanks in all circumstances" is a profound reminder that gratitude is not contingent upon favorable conditions alone. Even amidst challenges, expressing thanks becomes a trans-formative practice, shaping our perspective and aligning our hearts with a deeper understanding of God's purpose.

Why such a focus on these practices? The answer lies in the concluding statement: "for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." These verses illuminate a path aligned with God's will – a path of perpetual rejoicing, unceasing prayer, and unwavering gratitude. These biblical principles highlight that God's will is intricately tied to the transformation of our character and the shaping of our hearts to be more like Christ in our daily lives.

Continuing with the message, let's dive into another verse that sheds some light on the nature of God's will. Philippians 2:13

"For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose."

This verse not only underscores the divine influence in our lives but also underscores the dynamic interplay between God's will and our actions. It implies that God, in His infinite wisdom and benevolence, is actively at work within us, guiding both our desires and actions toward the fulfillment of His overarching, benevolent purpose.

The verse beckons us to contemplate the notion that our free will is intricately interwoven with God, suggesting a harmonious collaboration where God's trans-formative power operates alongside our personal choices. And as we navigate the intricacies of life, this verse serves as a compass, reminding us that our choices and deeds, when aligned with God's will, become instruments in the symphony of His grand design.

It's an invitation to not only recognize the divine agency at play but also to willingly yield to the unfolding of God's purpose in our lives, acknowledging that our aspirations and endeavors find their true significance within the context of His overarching plan. When we focus on the spiritual, God’s purpose is seen in the physical.

Another insightful verse centered around God’s will can be found in Ephesians 5:15-17

"Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is."

The passage in Ephesians 5 urges us to approach life with discernment, advising us to "look carefully then how you walk." This phrase encourages a thoughtful examination of our actions and decisions, steering us away from unwise choices. Instead, the guidance is to embody wisdom, making choices that align with God's principles.

"Making the best use of the time" underscores the importance of utilizing our time wisely. The mention of "because the days are evil" serves as a reminder that the world around us may present challenges and temptations. Hence, the call to be intentional with our time carries added significance in navigating these complexities.

The subsequent caution against foolishness further emphasizes the need for prudence in our endeavors. "But understand what the will of the Lord is" serves as the pinnacle of this guidance, stressing the importance of seeking and comprehending God's will in all aspects of our lives.

In essence, Ephesians 5:15-17 serves as a road map for a purposeful and wise life, urging believers to be vigilant, intentional, and discerning in their actions, especially in a world where challenges and distractions may abound. This goes beyond the external aspects of life as well; it's an internal wisdom that guides our choices and actions in alignment with God's purpose. It's a journey of becoming more Christlike in our character and actions.

As we explore God's will, we have to remember that it goes beyond the tangible aspects of life, it’s a trans-formative journey for our hearts. The verses from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Philippians 2:13, and Ephesians 5:15-17 collectively paint a picture of a continuous process—where joy, prayerfulness, gratitude, and wisdom become integral.

God's will isn't confined to specific life events or outcomes; rather, it's about the ongoing collaboration between His divine influence and our responsiveness. It's a call to internal wisdom, understanding the times, and walking wisely in alignment with the Lord's purpose.

So, as we embark on life, we should not only seek God's will for our external circumstances but also embrace the internal transformation He desires for each of us. That our hearts reflect the virtues of Christ, and that we may actively participate in fulfilling His good purpose. As we do so, we align ourselves with His will, and our lives reflect the beauty of His love.