How do we know what God wants us to do?
As we spend time with God individually and as churches, we learn to recognise his voice.
John 10 v14 & 27 Jesus said “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”
Sometimes, His voice is clear, sometimes it is not that easy. If we know the Bible, we know the general way God wants us to live: generously, joyfully, peacefully, justly, working hard, going the extra mile and loving in our words and actions. When it comes to specific guidance, we need to hear God’s voice clearly. He doesn’t often speak through the earthquake, wind and fire, but in the gentle whisper. You have to be close to hear a whisper.
A few years ago, my husband and I started Ballroom dancing classes. We were keen and eager to learn but didn’t have a clue! At first, we held each other loosely, looking at our feet, trying to get the steps right and not tread on each other. Over time, we learnt that it’s all about the hold, to be close so as to move as one around the floor, one leading, the other following. The results aren’t quite ‘Strictly’ yet, but we’re getting there!
Dancing with God
When I meditated on the word Guidance, I kept seeing ‘dance’ at the end of the word.
I remember reading that doing God’s will is a lot like dancing.
When two people try to lead, nothing feels right. The movement doesn’t flow with the music, and everything is quite uncomfortable and jerky. When one person realizes that, and lets the other lead, both bodies begin to flow with the music.
One gives gentle cues, like a hand pressing lightly to indicate one direction or another. It’s as if two become one body, moving beautifully. The dance takes surrender, willingness, and attentiveness from one person and gentle guidance and skill from the other.
It’s like this with God – we need to be close enough to hear Him whisper; let Him lead and guide you. Don’t hold Him at arms length, but hold on tight and move forward together.
My eyes drew back to the word Guidance.
When I saw ‘G: I thought of God, followed by ‘u’ and ‘i’.
‘G’ ‘u’ and ‘i’ dance’. God, you, and I dance.
I then prayed and became willing to trust that I would get guidance about my life. Every part of my life. Once again, I became willing to let God lead. You too ask him to lead and guide you through each season of your life. Amen
Colossians 2 v6-7
And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to live in obedience to him. Let your roots grow down into him and draw up nourishment from him, so you will grow in faith, strong and vigorous in the truth you were taught. Let your lives overflow with thanksgiving for all he has done. NLT
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A Toolbox for Small Churches (40 people or less) 