Apicontent

Obey God in what He has already revealed to you.

“Whoever has My commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves Me. He who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I too will love him and show Myself to him.” —John 14:21

Be faithful in using the light you already have.

Join God in what He is doing.

“Jesus said to them, ‘My Father is always at His work to this very day, and I, too, am working. I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by Himself; He can do only what He sees His Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. For the Father loves the Son and shows Him all He does.’” —John 5:17, 19-20

Involve yourself in God’s universal will for all believers. Avoid paralysis of analysis in seeking only God’s specific will.

Watch God as He is leading.

“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” —Proverbs 16:9

Focus on the next step God wants you to take and trust Him to get you to His destination, in His time.

Follow God where He is blessing.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” —John 15:5

Invest more time, talent, and treasure in those areas that are producing greater kingdom results.

Foundational Axioms

With a new perspective, everything is different even though nothing has changed.

Successful witnessing, is sharing Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit and leaving the results to God.

Successful _____________, is working diligently, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and leaving the results to God.

Sometimes God leads us to make the right decision for the wrong reason.

We can’t lose because God works together all things for the good of those who love Him.

We want to become all God created us to be—no more and no less.

Success, in God’s eyes, means faithfully completing the good works for which He created you.

If you prayerfully and faithfully always take the next step that God shows you, you will eventually arrive at the destination He planned for you.

God’s will is not a goal we pursue on our own terms; it is part of His divine plan. God calls us to fulfill His will according to His purpose, through His chosen people, in His designated place, within His perfect timing, and by His prescribed methods.

The construction of the first Temple in Jerusalem, envisioned by King David and built by King Solomon, illustrates how these six elements—What, Why, Who, Where, When, and How—work together to accomplish God’s plan.

What Is God’s Will? (The Goal of His Plan)

God’s will defines the specific objective He intends to achieve. What is the goal God seeks? It represents the tangible outcome of His divine intention.

God’s will was to establish a Temple, a permanent house for His presence in Israel, where His people could worship, offer sacrifices, and experience His glory (1 Chronicles 28:2-3). The Temple was a physical structure to centralize Israel’s worship.

Why Does God Desire This Goal? (The Purpose of His Plan)

God’s purpose reveals the deeper reason behind His will, explaining its significance. Why is this goal important to God? It reflects His eternal intentions, glorifying Him and blessing His creation.

The Temple’s purpose was to symbolize God’s covenant with Israel, His desire to dwell among them, and His plan to provide a place for atonement and worship, ultimately pointing to reconciliation through Christ (2 Chronicles 6:18-20).

Who Does God Call to Participate? (His Chosen Team)

God selects specific individuals or groups to carry out His will, equipping them for their roles. Who are the key people involved? These may include leaders, communities, or unexpected individuals chosen by God.

God chose David to envision the Temple and gather resources, though he was not permitted to build it due to his role as a warrior (1 Chronicles 22:8-10). Solomon, David’s son, was tasked with constructing it, leveraging his God-given wisdom (1 Kings 5:5). Artisans, laborers, and the people of Israel contributed materials and skills, forming God’s team (1 Chronicles 29:6-9).

Where Does God This Fulfilled? (The Context of His Plan)

God’s will unfolds in specific places or circumstances, whether physical or spiritual. Where will His plan be implemented? This could be a specific location or a broader context, as God directs.

God designated Mount Moriah in Jerusalem as the Temple’s site (2 Chronicles 3:1), a place of spiritual significance where Abraham offered Isaac (Genesis 22:2). It served as the central hub for Israel’s worship.

When Does God This Accomplished? (His Timeline)

God’s plan unfolds within His perfect timing, which may differ from human expectations. What is the timeline for fulfilling His will? It may involve immediate action, preparation, or a long-term vision.

God’s timeline spanned generations: David received the vision and gathered resources during his reign, but the construction occurred under Solomon (1 Chronicles 22:5-6). The Temple was completed in seven years (2 Chronicles 5:1), requiring patience and trust in God’s timing.

How Does God Want This to Be Carried Out? (His Process and Resources)

God provides specific methods, resources, and guidance to accomplish His will. What steps or resources does He provide? Through prayer, Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and community, God equips His people.

God gave David detailed plans for the Temple through divine revelation (1 Chronicles 28:11-12). Resources included gold, silver, cedar, and skilled craftsmen from Israel and Tyre (2 Chronicles 2:7-16). Solomon executed the plan with precision, guided by prayer and worship (2 Chronicles 6:14-21).

The building of the first Temple demonstrates how God’s will, purpose, people, place, timing, and methods align to fulfill His divine plan. Just as David and Solomon trusted God’s direction, we are called to follow His will with faith, aligning with His purpose and process.

God wants to guide you on your life journey, but do you know how to discern His direction?

“Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.” —Galatians 5:25, NLT

How do you separate what God is saying to you from all the other distracting messages around you?

1. Prepare Yourself to Hear God.

• By getting right with God

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous, forgiving us our sins and cleansing us from all unrighteousness.” —1 John 1:9

• By surrendering your will to God

“We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but if anyone is devout and does his will, God listens to him.” —John 9:31

• By humbling yourself before God

“Humble yourselves before the Lord and he will exalt you.” —James 4:10

• By renewing your mind with biblical truth

“Do not be conformed to this present world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may test and approve what is the will of God—what is good and well-pleasing and perfect.” —Romans 12:2

• By having a mindset of faith, trust, and expectancy toward God

“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for the one who approaches God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” —Hebrews 11:6

• By being patient and willing to wait on God

“I waited patiently for the Lord, and he turned to me and heard my cry for help.” —Psalm 40:1

2. Ask God for Direction.

God desires us to approach Him with specific requests for direction because it demonstrates we recognize His authority, trust His wisdom, and desire to follow His will.

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” —Matthew 7:7-8

If you face a problem or opportunity, a fear or a desire, and need God’s guidance, Scripture assures us: “But if anyone is deficient in wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without reprimand, and it will be given to him.” —James 1:5

• Pray with Specificity

Clearly articulate your request or question to God. Be as thoughtfully clear as if you are initiating an AI search. Avoid vague prayers; carefully define the request.

• Record Your Prayers

Write down your prayers, questions, and any specific details related to your request for direction.

• Persist in Prayer

Consistently seek God through prayer, even when answers aren’t immediate, trusting His timing and plan. Cultivate patience and faith, resisting the urge to rush decisions, and continue seeking until clarity emerges.

3. Seek God’s Directional Signposts.

Keep a journal to document thoughts, scriptures, or impressions you believe may be God’s response over time. Review your notes regularly to discern patterns or recurring guidance that may indicate God’s leading.

God directs our steps:

• Through His Word, the Bible.

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” —Psalm 119:105, NIV

• Through the prompting of the Holy Spirit.

“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth.” —John 16:13, NIV

• Through other people.

“Make plans by seeking advice.” —Proverbs 20:18, NIV

• Through providential circumstances.

“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” —Genesis 50:20, NIV

4. Confirm the Direction Is from God.

To ensure a decision aligns with God’s will, prayerfully evaluate it through these questions, trusting God to guide you:

• Does it align with God’s Word?

God’s guidance never contradicts His written Word. Ensure the direction is consistent with biblical principles.

“Guide me in the path of your commands, for I delight to walk in it.” —Psalm 119:35

• Does it reflect godly reasoning?

Use reasoning grounded in God’s truth, shaped by a mind renewed through Scripture, to discern His will.

“Do not be conformed to this present world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may test and approve what is the will of God—what is good and well-pleasing and perfect.” —Romans 12:2

• Does it fit with your circumstances?

Consider whether the direction harmonizes with the circumstances God has sovereignly arranged in your life.

“In him we have also obtained an inheritance, because we were predestined according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to the counsel of his will.” —Ephesians 1:11

• Does it align with wise, godly counsel?

Seek input from trusted, godly advisors to confirm the direction. Their wisdom can provide clarity and perspective.

“Plans fail when there is no counsel, but with abundant advisers they are established.” —Proverbs 15:22

• Does it bring God-given peace?

Look for a supernatural peace that transcends circumstances, affirming God’s guidance even in challenges.

“Do not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God. And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 4:6–7

Note: You don’t need a “yes” to every question to confirm God’s direction. However, a “no” to any question should prompt you to pause, pray, and seek further clarity from God before moving forward.

5. Knock on the doors God shows you.

When you sense clear direction, take faithful steps forward, trusting God to correct or confirm your path.

“The steps of a person are ordained by the Lord—so how can anyone understand his own way?” —Psalm 37:23

“Your ears will hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ whenever you turn to the right or to the left.” —Isaiah 30:21

God will guide you as you take the next step by faith.

Cultivating attitudes that reflect God’s supreme authority is essential for believers seeking to align their hearts and lives with His sovereign will. The following ten attitudes—rooted in Scripture and exemplified by Christ—guide believers to foster a deeper relationship with God and reflect His glory in every aspect of life.

Humility: Not Pridefulness

Humility aligns with God’s nature and fosters a heart posture that is receptive to His grace, guidance, and love. Humility acknowledges human dependence on God’s sovereignty, recognizing that all blessings, abilities, and opportunities come from Him, not from personal merit. Pride, conversely, elevates the self above God, fostering arrogance and self-reliance.

“Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.” —1 Peter 5:6

“What do you have that you did not receive? And if you received it, why do you boast as though you did not?” —1 Corinthians 4:7

Faith: Not Fear

Exercise faith rather than succumb to fear because faith reflects trust in God’s sovereign power, goodness, and promises, fostering a deeper connection with Him. Faith enables believers to rely on God’s unchanging nature and His ability to guide and provide, even in uncertain or challenging circumstances. Fear, on the other hand, stems from doubt and self-reliance.

“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for the one who approaches God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” —Hebrews 11:6

“For God did not give us a Spirit of fear but of power and love and self-control.” —2 Timothy 1:7

God-Dependent: Not Self-Reliant

Dependence upon God rather than self-reliance fosters a deep, trusting relationship that acknowledges God’s sovereignty, wisdom, and provision. By relying on God, believers recognize that their strength, resources, and purpose come from Him, aligning their hearts with His divine plan. Self-reliance, however, often leads to pride and a false sense of control.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding.” —Proverbs 3:5

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped.” —Psalm 28:7

Patience: Not Haste

Patience reflects trust in God’s sovereign timing and wisdom, fostering spiritual growth and alignment with His divine plan. Patience enables believers to endure trials, wait on God’s promises, and respond to others with grace. Hastiness, on the other hand, often leads to impulsive decisions, errors, or reliance on human understanding, which disrupts God’s purpose.

“Wait for the Lord! Be strong and confident! Wait for the Lord!” —Psalm 27:14

“Enthusiasm without knowledge is not good, and haste makes mistakes.” —Proverbs 19:2

Obedience: Not Disobedience

Obedience reflects a heart submitted to God’s sovereign authority and trust in His perfect will. By obeying God’s commands, believers demonstrate faith in His wisdom and align their lives with His divine purpose. Disobedience stems from self-will and rebellion, disrupting the relationship with God and leading to consequences that hinder His plan.

“If you love me, you will obey my commandments.” —John 14:15

“The one who has my commandments and keeps them is the one who loves me; and the one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and will reveal myself to him.” —John 14:21

Gratefulness: Not Dissatisfaction

Gratitude reflects a heart that recognizes God’s sovereignty, provision, and goodness, fostering a deeper trust in His divine plan. Dissatisfaction, however, breeds discontent and self-focus, leading believers to overlook God’s faithfulness and provision, which can weaken their faith and relationship with Him.

“Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” —1 Thessalonians 5:18

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him and bless his name!” —Psalm 100:4

Contentment: Not Covetousness

Contentment reflects trust in God’s sovereign provision and gratitude for His blessings, fostering peace and spiritual satisfaction. Contentment acknowledges that God’s plan and provision are sufficient, aligning believers with His will. Covetousness, however, breeds discontent and a desire for what others have, leading to envy and spiritual unrest.

“I have learned to be content in any circumstance.” —Philippians 4:11

“Make sure you are not drawn toward material things, but instead be content with what you have, for he himself has said, ‘I will never leave you and I will never abandon you.’” —Hebrews 13:5

Diligence: Not Negligence

Diligence reflects a heart committed to honoring God through faithful stewardship of time, talents, and responsibilities. Diligence involves persistent effort and care in pursuing God’s purposes. Negligence, in contrast, demonstrates a lack of care or effort, leading to wasted opportunities and a failure to glorify God or serve others effectively.

“Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically, as something done for the Lord and not for men.” —Colossians 3:23

“The plans of the diligent lead only to plenty, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” —Proverbs 21:5

Love: Not Self-Centeredness

Love reflects God’s own nature and fulfills His greatest commandments, fostering unity and glorifying Him. By prioritizing love, believers build relationships that honor God and serve others, aligning with His call to love Him and their neighbors. Self-centeredness, conversely, prioritizes personal gain, leading to division, pride, and neglect of others’ needs.

“Jesus said to him, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. The second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” —Matthew 22:37-39

“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.” —1 John 3:16

Worshipfulness: Not Idolatry

Worship reflects a heart devoted to God’s sovereignty, acknowledging Him as the only true God worthy of adoration. Worship aligns believers with God’s glory, fostering intimacy and reverence in their relationship with Him. Idolatry, conversely, places created things above the Creator, violating His supreme authority.

“You must have no other gods before me.” —Exodus 20:3

“Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name! Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness!” —Psalm 29:2

These ten attitudes form a cohesive framework for living in alignment with God’s sovereignty. Together, they cultivate a heart posture that trusts His authority, reflects His character, and glorifies Him in all circumstances.

Many believers tend to view their relationship with God in a narrow way, often seeking only His protection, blessings, or comfort, much like a child asking a parent for gifts. This limited perspective distorts their expectations and overlooks the full sovereignty of who God truly is. God is not just a loving Father; He is also our Creator and Sovereign Ruler. Recognizing these roles can transform how we approach Him in prayer and in life.

God, Our Sovereign Creator

God, the Potter, shapes us, His clay, to fulfill His divine purpose. As Creator, He spoke the universe into existence and assigns each a role—some noble, some common—by His sovereign will. As His creation, approach Him with reverence, not questioning His design.

“Yet, LORD, you are our father. We are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the product of your labor.” —Isaiah 64:8

“You are confusing things! Should the potter be regarded as clay?” —Isaiah 29:16

“Woe to the one who argues with his Creator… Does the clay say to the potter, ‘What are you doing?’” —Isaiah 45:9

“Has the potter no right to make from the same lump of clay one vessel for special use and another for ordinary use?” —Romans 9:20-21

➢ Honor God by offering your life as worship.

“Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true worship.” —Romans 12:1

➢ Trust the Potter’s hands. Surrender to His purpose, and let your life glorify Him as a vessel shaped for His glory.

God, Our Sovereign Father

God’s love for you is boundless, a Father devoted to your eternal well-being. As His child, you’re adopted through spiritual rebirth, forgiven, and equipped for His purpose. Approach Him with love and gratitude, trusting His divine plan.

“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” —1 John 3:1

“But to all who have received him… he has given the right to become God’s children.” —John 1:12

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind.” —Luke 10:27

➢ Your Sovereign Father loves you deeply. Live boldly as His child, reflecting His love and glory!

God, Our Sovereign King

God, the Sovereign King, rules over all creation with supreme authority. As His subject, serve Him with allegiance and obedience, advancing His eternal kingdom. Approach your King with humility, ready to fulfill His divine assignments.

“The LORD has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all.” —Psalm 103:19

“Whatever you do, do it heartily, as for the Lord… It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.” —Colossians 3:23-24

“Submit yourselves, then, to God.” —James 4:7

➢ Serve your Sovereign King with devotion. Submit to His will and let your life glorify His eternal kingdom!