WHAT GOD WANTS
30th Oct 2013
Wanting our own way is something we are all very familiar with. Being self centred is at the heart of unredeemed human nature and is seen even in new born babies, within a very short while!
So I was fascinated when reading the translation in The Message of 1 Peter 4:1-2 which says, “Since Jesus went through everything you’re going through and more, learn to think like him. Think of your sufferings as a weaning from the old sinful habit of always expecting to get your own way. Then you’ll be able to live out your days free to pursue what God wants instead of being tyrannised by what you want.” Wow! That’s hard hitting.
So at the times when we say, “I need someone to love me”, Jesus says, “A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34) When we reach out in love to others, we will receive love in return.
At other times when it seems we are the only ones doing all the hard work, “I need a break” we cry out, and yet Proverbs 11:25 says, “He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.”
We had been greatly delayed, battling down the motorway through traffic jams, and felt like going home to bed; but we had promised to spend the evening with friends. We went, had a great time, enjoyed their company and came home less tired than when we had climbed out of the car.
God’s ways are completely opposite to that of the world. When we are offended, we are to forgive; when we feel deprived, we are to give love; when we feel lack, we are to be generous; when we would want to please ourselves, we are to serve others.
In the garden of Gethsemene, under the most extreme pressure, Jesus was able to say, “Not my will, but yours be done.” Jesus had given his life seeking only to do what was pleasing to His Father.
Today ask the Father how He wants you to live.
by Charles Sibthorpe
