Scripture Reading: Matthew 6:9–13

Introduction

A. When Paul made the long journey back to Jerusalem after his third missionary journey, he was on an important mission to ease the suffering of his brethren there (Romans 15:23–28; 2 Corinthians 9:1–5).

B. Paul had been warned of the dangers (Acts 20:22–24; 21:4, 11), but was resolved to carry out his objective even if it cost him his life.

Discussion

I. Paul welcomed God’s will in his life.

A. When he understood God’s will, he didn’t need anyone else’s permission (Acts 21:4, 12–14; Galatians 1:15–17).

B. He didn’t need the assistance of human wisdom to accomplish God’s objectives (1 Corinthians 1:21).

C. He refused to shrink back from God’s will under any circumstances (Acts 21:13; Hebrews 10:38–39).

II. Are you willing to accept God’s will in your life?

A. It takes strong faith and strong character to accept God’s will and to do it (Job 1:21; Acts 13:22; Hebrews 10:1–10).

B. You can discern God’s will through prayer (Colossians 1:9–10), by walking as children of light (Ephesians 5:8–21), and by sacrificing yourself (Romans 12:1–2).

C. You should know that it is God’s will for you to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9).

Conclusion

A. God’s will is sure to work out better in your life than your own.

B. You should also remember that doing God’s will comes with an unbelievable reward (Hebrews 10:36).

C. Jesus says that He came to this earth to do the Father’s will instead of His own (John 6:38). Will you follow His example?