Pastoral Word
How does one truly determine the will of God? How does a church know when she is in the will of God? I have combed through the scriptures and I am convinced that the answer to theses questions can be found in God’s response to Solomon after the completion of the temple in Jerusalem. Even though ancient Israel could now bask in the glory and splendor of the newly built House of the Lord, Solomon remained acutely aware of his shortcomings as well as the sins of the people. Solomon wisely asked God to make provision for the people when they sinned. In response to Solomon’s request God declares –
“If my people, who are called by name,
shall humble themselves, and pray, and
seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways;
then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin,
and will heal their land.”
(II Chronicles 7:14)
The will of God, both individually and congregationally, can only be ascertained when in and through prayer we humble ourselves; seek God’s face; repent of our sins; and forsake our wicked ways. Let there be no doubt that this ancient yet timely word of scripture is still potent and powerful today as we seek to do the will of God.
Let each year be a year of prayer! When we stay in communion with God and not adhere to the enticement of our own selfish agendas then we will know the joy and peace of living in the will of God.