Here is what I have been seeking for quite sometime now. How can I tell the difference between seeking something I want and what God wants. At what time do you say "ok guess you don't want me to have that God" and begin to be content just as I am. Get that? So far I can not find what God is telling me about this. other than be content in all things. Is that all there is to it?
I wish that I could give you a flat out, definitive answer but that is out of my realm of power so instead we will look at the Word.
I have heard it said many times that the Bible is God's "road map" or "instruction book" for life. While there is some sort of truth in those statements, I find them more frustrating than helpful. The Bible does not promise to give clear guidance on every major and minor issue in our lives. It does not tell anyone what they should eat for breakfast, which job they should pursue, what church to attend, who they should date/marry, where they should live, etc. However, it does give practical precepts that can help mold decision-making. For a few of the examples above: So for breakfast, as long as I am not gluttonous (Proverbs 23:20-21) and have a clear conscious about the source of my food, I should eat and drink to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). As for a job, 1 Peter 4:11 says, "If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen." So our jobs should not work grudgingly and hate our jobs, but we should rely on God's strength and should look at our jobs as outlets God has given to us to show our co-workers Christ on a daily basis to bring God praise. And so on...
Ephesians 5:15-17 says, "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."
However, the question still remains because we have to be able to understand God's will. Romans 12:2 says, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." The rest of the chapter then goes on to discuss what being transformed by the renewing of your mind truly means, and this is definitely key.
I'm sure you may be frustrated at this point because I am not directly answering your question. The truth is (as I'm sure you know) that most times we are not going to have any sort of audible confirmation by God nor is there a litmus test that determines the right course of action. God is always in a ferocious pursuit of us and what He desires is that we, in turn, ferociously pursue Him by the transforming and renewal of our mind. This means at times we seriously struggle with what the right thing to do is.
My advice concerning situations where we are confused on the right course of action is this: Live out your faith each individual day. Pray consistently for God's discernment, and let him know your desires, hopes, and fears. Be as transparent and open with Him as possible. Ask Him for wisdom (James 1:5-8 - look this one up) and to reveal your true heart motives. There have been times with me that I have desired something that appeared good on the outside, but I realized after prayer, confession, and repentance that my motives were focused on my own selfishness. God had given my heart the answer, but I wasn't willing to accept it.
It may not happen overnight, but clarity should come over time. While it would be great if God made things very cut and dry, he desires more to chip off our rough edges and make us more and more reliant on Him. So yes, we should all be content in all things (Philippians 4) but we should fight for God's will and for a renewed mind in the process.
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So, there you have it. Feel free to comment away. Remember, I would love any questions about Christianity, specifically questions from atheists/agnostics and followers of other religions. However, I love to look up doctrinal questions from other brother and sisters in Christ as well. Submit your questions either through the comment section, my facebook page, or email. I love you all so very much...
