Lifetime Daily DevotionsSample

Doing God's Will

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

I think I'm seeking His will for me as I plan my day -- praying about things: just how much I should be involved in the lives of my boys; what phone calls I should make; should I send a note to Nancy; should I accept the chairmanship of that committee; seeking His guidance even in my grocery shopping; yet all the while I'm fretting about some of the things the boys are going through or getting frustrated when the sweeper conks out, resenting the mundane chores that seem never to end -- and there's my constant battle with depression.

Then I come face-to-face with 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. I stop. And I think. Am I walking in His revealed will for me, rejoicing and giving thanks in everything and prayingconstantly? Am I practicing those things that I know are His will -- that are not a "nebulous leading" but written, direct instruction?

How illogical I am sometimes! And I was so proud of all of my efforts and my prayers. (My efforts and my prayers). I had my own little conversations going with God about my daily routine. (Impressive!) Choosing what I think He might want me to do instead of what He has told me to do. But then, "doing" is so much easier (and more visible) than "rejoicing" or "praying" or "thanking." Not doing what I ask is what I would call disobedience or rebellion in my child.

Here I am praying, "Lord, show me Your will for my life today." And He's saying, "But Anabel, I have. And you're ignoring it."

Lord, I don't want to be disobedient to Your Word, Your instructions, Your law -- Your will. I understand that I should be obedient to what I have received before presuming to ask for more. Only You can accomplish this for me -- through me.

Thank You, dear One.