Originally published Monday, 26 February 2018.
www.insideoutwithcourtnaye.org
I want to ask you a heart-to-heart question. Are you about the Father's business today? Or, are you busy doing what you want to do vs. what God has called you to do? Think about that for a moment. The reason why I’m asking these questions, is because sometimes we can get so caught up in doing a “good” thing that we neglect to be doing a “God” thing? What I mean by this is, “Are you truly doing the will of God or are you busy doing what you think will bring you happiness or success?”
I know this is a tough question, but we are running out of time ladies. Unfortunately today, too many Christians are finding themselves searching for success in all the wrong places. Between the Internet and television, there are so many subliminal messages and outside influences that are so persuasive, that it’s deceptively luring people away from their true purpose and calling, and away from the heart of God. Satan is a master deceiver, especially in this last hour. And if not discerning, prayerful, and in your word, he’ll have you believing that you need to be someone or doing something that is totally away from God’s will for your life (I would know, because I’ve been there).
Listen, I am in no way trying to discourage you from fulfilling what you know God is calling you to do right now. However, I am asking you to consider Him in all of your endeavors while making sure that He's the one who has instructed you to do what you're doing. Father knows best. And we have to be ever so careful that we don’t allow ourselves to indulge in things that can take our affection away from God and throw us of course. Jesus is coming soon and we have to be sober-minded. The Bible says in Colossians, 3:2, “Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth.”
I'll admit, it’s so easy to start doing your own thing and what you think is right. I’ve had moments in my life where I have had some great ideas, and I’d say, “Yeah, that’s it! That’s what I’m going to do!” And then I’d get started with the planning and working on it, but then the Holy Spirit would quicken me with, “Did you consult the Father?” And then I’d literally have to go back to God in prayer and ask, “Lord, I’m sorry. What do you think about this? Is this something you want me to do right now or do I need to let it go or wait for it?” He is so faithful to answer. This encounter is like a child humbling herself and asking her daddy for the best advice. 1 Peter 5:6 says, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you.”
I’ll tell you, there is nothing like experiencing the Lord’s peace and approval when you follow His word and direction. Proverbs 3:5-8 encourages us to, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths. Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn your back on evil. Then you will have renewed health and vitality.” (NLT)
Our plans may be good, but they are not the best!
So with that being said, I’ll ask this question again. “Are you truly doing what God has called you to do in this season of your life or are you busy doing what you think will bring you happiness or success?” I encourage you my sister to be about the Father’s business and consult Him in all you do, and then you will experience true joy and success. For instance, if you’re called to sing, don’t sing for the world, sing for God. If you’re called to write, write what will please the Father. If you are called to dance, don’t taint your gift with worldly music and dance performances, there are plenty of dance ministries in the church. If you are a business or ministry leader, consult God on your endeavors and decisions. And lastly, but certainly not least, if you are called to be a student, mother, wife, friend, employee, boss, or servant in the church, then do God’s will right where you are and in your scope of influence for the kingdom.
Remember, Jesus was about His Father’s business. He knew what He was called to do, and when it was time, He fulfilled it. He teaches us in Matthew 7:21, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” NOTE: We don’t want to hear, “…I never knew you. Go away, the things you did were unauthorized.” (Matthew 7:23 NLT)
So let’s consult our heavenly Father on our endeavors and be about His business ladies; and then we can gladly hear, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:21 NLT)
Remember, Jesus is coming back soon! And those who endure unto the end shall be saved. So let’s be ready from the Inside Out!
~Courtnaye
QUESTION: Do you know your purpose, sis? Do you feel like you're walking in God's perfect will right now, with all that you're doing? These are just self-examination questions. However, if you'd like prayer in this area, you can email me directly @ insideoutwithcourtnaye@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you and praying for you.
ALSO, my NEW 8-Week Study Guide and Video Teaching Series from my book, "IDENTIFIED: Knowing Who You Are in Christ & Moving Forward in Your Purpose” is FINALLY available!!! Purchase here.
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