I remember struggling with one of the big life questions for years.
The question was – God, what is your will for my life?
I started asking this question somewhere in my high school years and continued searching for that answer into my mid-20s. As with many of those big life questions, I bet many have asked that question at some point in their life as well.
Looking back at those years and my asking that question, I have much more clarity today. The clarity relates to my motive for asking the question as much as it does the answer.
My desire to find the answer to that big life question had much more to do with me than God. Here’s why:
I was convinced that knowing God’s will for my life would lead to success, comfort, peace, and fulfillment. Furthermore, I thought knowing God’s will would alleviate uncertainty, anxiety, and worrisome situations.
While there is some level of truth in some of those assumptions above, I was focused on me and how I would benefit. I wanted a straight line in life. I wanted a direct path to success in every facet. I didn’t want obstacles, stumbling blocks, and detours.
I wanted to know, so I could write my plan in ink and move forward with certainty. Hard work should be rewarded. Doing the right thing should be recognized. Knowing God’s will for my life should provide that certainty.
As you can tell, my problem asking that question was the emphasis placed on “my life” not “God’s will”.
I now realize that “hard” doesn’t mean “wrong”, that uncertainty builds dependence (on God), and that true peace is not dependent on circumstances. I also realize that I am not in control and don’t have control over many outcomes, no matter how hard I work.
For most of us life will not be a straight line, and we had better use a pencil with an eraser when making plans. Uncertainty is part of life, and it’s ok!
The more I get to know God, the more my focus changes. Sure, I still wrestle with decisions and pray for guidance, but the motives are different. The most fulfilling outcomes are often found in the toughest challenge. The more uncertainty, the more dependent (on God) I find myself. The more I need guidance, the closer I walk with God.
Jeremiah 29:13 says, “You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart”.
I wonder if we found the answer to that BIG question.
Doug equips leaders to make organizations better. He has two leadership books available on all online platforms. Whether you are looking for a speaker for your next event or a leadership coach to develop people and build an authentic team, contact Doug at doug.strickel@gmail.com and learn more about PLUS.
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