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The General Will of God for Every Christian

Sometimes we get so caught up in wondering what the will of God is for our lives that we end up stagnant in our relationship with Him. I have done this at times, and I hear others say it as well – “I’m just waiting on the Lord”.

In our waiting, however, we forget that the “will of God” has two dimensions: One is specifically related to his call on our individual lives – this is when we are to “wait on the Lord” – for his timing to reveal our next step. The other, is the general call, or will rather, on every believer. This “will” is referring to our lifestyle and in this sense; there is no need to “wait on the Lord”. 

I was reminded of this while flipping through my Bible this morning – it’s been too long since I have studied 1 Thessalonians, and I am grateful to the Spirit for causing this to jump off the pages and into my heart. Perhaps it will do the same for you.

Beginning in 1 Thessalonians chapter 4, verse 3 we read: “For this is the will of God…”

Paul goes on to list quite a few things. These are enough to keep us busy the rest of our lives! Here are at least 20 things that I saw at first glance.

1) Abstain from sexual immorality – exercise self control and do not take advantage of the weak in this area.

2) Aspire to lead a quiet life – mind your own business, do not be idle.

3) Be watchful and sober.

4) Put on the breastplate of faith, love, and the helmet of salvation.

5) Comfort each other and edify one another.

6) Esteem laborers of the gospel in love for their work.

7) Be at peace with one another.

8) Warn those who are unruly.

9) Comfort the faint hearted.

10) Uphold the weak.

11) Be patient with all.

12) Do not pay evil for evil to anyone.

13) Pursue what is good – for you and for all.

14) Rejoice always.

15) Pray without ceasing.

16) In everything give thanks (Again, we are reminded this is the will of God).

17) Do not quench the Spirit.

18) Do not despise prophecies.

19) Test all things – only hold on to what is good.

20) Abstain from every form of evil.

WOW – The only way these things are possible is by staying close to the Lord, studying his word, and allowing the Holy Spirit to have his way our heart and conscience, as each of these have entire instructions in Scripture on their own.

The word for me this morning is that while I wait on the Lord to reveal his call on my life, I have plenty to keep me busy by living out his will for everyday life.

I am looking forward to rereading 1 and 2 Thessalonians all the way through. I have a feeling the list is actually much longer than my first glance.

May the Lord bless you and keep you this day and may we as Christians walk in the will of our heavenly Father every day.

In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

» left by Marijo Phelps from mountain meadow in CO (2 years 212 days ago.)

We are instructed to "occupy until He comes..." this would be very good instruction on how to "occupy" besides "occupying" the land, ground He has given us (to keep the enemy out, and the Lord's Army in....)

 

Marijo

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» left by Teresa^(1,655) (2 years 212 days ago.)

Hi Marijo,

I love it when you comment. You always add a new perspective giving broader insights. A great example how the word of God is alive and active.

Thank you ! Blessings, Teresa

 

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» left by Caleb (2 years 212 days ago.)

Awesome! I was just speaking with some college age students last week and quoted this verse (1st Thess). Thanks for the great article.

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» left by Teresa^(1,655) (2 years 212 days ago.)

Thanks Caleb - Praise God for the opportunity you and Sol had to go to camp! I hadn't considered all of the great stuff in Thessalonians in a while.

Blessings! Teresa

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» left by Lydia Najera from Spangle, Washington (2 years 212 days ago.)

Teresa you are totally amazing and yes God has really gave you a gift to hit the nail on the head with your articals. I am going to learn so much from you and Lords know that I am ready to. God bless Lydia

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» left by Teresa^(1,655) (2 years 209 days ago.)

Thank you Lydia, it's good to be in touch and its a blessing to see your desire for the things of God. You have come a long way in a short time.

I enjoyed talking with Paster Dave, let's keep praying it works out for me to come up. Talk to you soon about the next article. :-)  Love you! Teresa

 

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» left by Swapna Nanda from India (2 years 210 days ago.)

Wow! wow! what a wonderful lesson to start my day. I am blessed and thank you Teresa for writing such deep thoughts from the scriptures. God bless you. with love, swapna

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» left by Teresa^(1,655) (2 years 209 days ago.)

Hi Swapna, Lord bless you! Thank you for the kind words. It's something that is all to easy to forget. It is a good reminder for me these days, as we are moving and there are so many things on my mind - a place to rent, a new job, new church etc..  It's good to have you back. I am praying for your family and Chiradeep's family as well. You guys a  great light in your part of the world!! Love, Teresa

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» left by Avis in SC (2 years 208 days ago.)

 

Teresa, a very good Word study and teachings. I am now just going to bed for the night at 6:00AM. You have been anointed to teach the Word. You are a blessing to many and I include myself in that number. Much love to you. I'm spiritually awake but rather tired. 

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» left by Teresa^(1,655) (2 years 208 days ago.)

Sistah A, oh my! What a long night. I pray you catch up on your Z's :-)

Thank you for the encouraging words, I am glad you ae blessed.  Love, Sistah T

 

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» left by Rafael Luque Najera from Yucca Valley Ca. (2 years 208 days ago.)

Yes, mija we do need to busy about our fathers work,but while we wait for him to open the next door.we are ambassadors  of heaven. your article goes along with prverbs 13:17 thank for reminding us. Your Dad Rafael

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» left by Teresa^(1,655) (2 years 208 days ago.)

Hi Dad, thanks for reading and for the comment. I appreciate the input of Proverbs 13:17 - A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a trustworthy courier brings healing. Lord help every Christian to be postive light that shares the healing power of God!

We are a testimony to this, aren't we :-)  Love you! Teresa

 

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