Book: The Will of God by Rick Renner
Available for purchase on amazon and in our bookstore this Sunday
As a Pastor, it seems most of my time is spent guiding people on their walk of faith as they seek to find the will of God for their lives. Some are convinced of what God wants them to do but are frustrated because they are not walking in that purpose. Knowing His will and walking in it are two different things. The struggles are real! The when, what, how, and why questions play a huge role in what causes us to celebrate life or live in a constant state of frustration. Thank God for Paul! We see his transformation, his salvation, his struggle to obey, and his inability to really embrace what God asked him to do fully.
(You can read about his experience in Acts 9:1-9)
The great thing is that if God can call and use Paul to change the world, then he can use YOU! Paul wrote about himself in 1 Timothy 1:12-13, “And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enables me, for hat he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious……..”
The grace of God transformed Paul from the inside out. Paul understood that God had forgiven him and he was no longer guilty of the injustices he caused against the children of God. Oh, if only we could release those who may have wronged us or even forgive ourselves if we have wronged others! This is reconciliation! This is what we are called to do! This is real love! This is grace! This is the gospel of Jesus Christ!
Saul’s life journey instantaneously changed directions as, in a split second, he was saved, delivered, and changed into a champion of truth. - page 25
What happened to Saul happened to you the moment you became born again. His plan and purpose for your life was deposited inside you. You may not understand it, you may not know it, and yet it is there. Your life may have taken a detour, and you may not know or understand His will, but just trust Him. He is preparing you for the work He has called you to do. Personally, each step and path of my life has prepared me for the exact season I am in today. He knew exactly what I needed to get out of my comfort zone and conquer my fears. I have told my daughter many times, “If we run into a wall as we pursue the vision God has given us, we don’t stop. We either climb over it or run right through it!”.
What has God placed in your heart? Are you still trying to figure it out? That is okay! Just rest and trust that He will lead and guide you, and not only will you know but God will confirm it through others.
Join us on the CAJ podcast as we talk about these chapters.