As we enjoy summer, it’s a good time use our more relaxed schedule to reflect on what God has been and is doing in our lives. Here is the fifth devotion that challenges us to examine how well we are hearing God daily:

IN WORD – When God’s people don’t do His will, it isn’t because the information isn’t out there. God gave us His holy Word, He sent His Son into this world, His Son has been preached and taught all over this planet, and millions of Christians are quite vocal about their faith. He even sent His Spirit to put wind in the sails of every believer and get the good news out with power. No, ignorance isn’t a legitimate problem among the people of God.
The real problem is rebellion. Stubbornness. Hardness of heart. Apathy. Whatever you want to call it, we can never claim that we just didn’t know. No one can say, “I wanted to love and obey God, but I just didn’t have enough information.” God is very clear on that point: “He has showed you, O man, what is good.”
When there’s a disconnect between God’s will and our lives, it can be traced to a moment of decision. Willingness is the key. James warned about people who heard the Word of God and then forgot what to do about it (James 1:22-24). So did Jesus, who told His disciples that much seed is sown in places where it will not bear any fruit (Matthew 13:18-22). In neither case was ignorance the issue. When we arrive at that great day of accounting at the end of the age, and God asks us why we didn’t do His will, we won’t be able to say, “I didn’t know what it was.” Anyone who really wants to know can ask Him and seek diligently. He always directs believers who are open to being directed.
IN DEED – Do you want to follow God? He has shown the way. There’s no need to abandon the quest, to resign yourself to the idea that you’ll never hear His voice. Much of it is already evident in the pages of Scripture. Any of the finer points of His will about your specific circumstances are yours for the asking (James 1:5). Our God is a God of revelation; He even created us for the simple reason of being known. If you ever feel aimless in life, remember: He has shown you what is good. “In doing God’s will we find our peace.” — Dante (in “Worship the King” by Chris Tiegreen)

When God answers your prayers or prompts you to do His will, how do you respond? Do you respond with “Thanks, God! Let me think about it.” Or “Yes, God! Right away!” For many, it’s not that God doesn’t answer prayers or provide guidance. It’s that we still choose whether or not to accept His will. Then when things don’t go our way, we blame God – all the while forgetting that it is we who chose not to follow Him.
Take time to reflect on your attitude when God speaks and answers with John 14 – 17, then ask the Holy Spirit to help you fully abide in the Lord’s will. You will find that each day will be more grace-filled than if you are apart from Him. Have a blessed week! From Taipei, Pastor Sam