Spiritual Preparation for the Ministry III - Rev. Billy Cole

Aug 24, 2024

Lecture on Finding and Doing the Will of God

Introduction

  • Importance of understanding and doing the will of God.
  • The lecture aims to explore how to find God's will and the necessity of supernatural strength to accomplish it.

Scripture Reference

  • Based on Luke 22:39-43, where Jesus prays for God's will to be done.
  • Emphasis on seeking God's will as Jesus did.

Two Urgent Needs for Doing God's Will

  1. Finding God's Will
    • Determining what God's will is for an individual.
  2. Supernatural Strength
    • Human strength, education, or ability is not sufficient.
    • Need for God's blessings and strength to fulfill His will.

Common Question

  • Frequent question from young people: "How do I know what God wants me to do?"
  • The answer can be found through scripture, trusted advisors, and personal revelation.

Three Ways to Find God's Will

  1. Through God's Word

    • The Bible as the old and new "will" of God.
    • God's instructions are in harmony with His Word, especially regarding salvation.
    • Illustrative story of the speaker's challenge in Thailand, reinforcing belief in scriptural truth.

  2. Through Trusted Advisors

    • Importance of guidance from trusted spiritual leaders.
    • Personal anecdote about being sent to Thailand by a respected leader, Brother Effie Kurtz.

  3. Direct Revelation from God

    • Known as the "voice of God."
    • God speaks differently to individuals.
    • Speaker's experience of gentle impressions versus wife's dramatic experiences.

Faith and Action

  • Importance of acting on God's revelations.
  • Story of a young preacher who had a vision but needed to act on it.
  • The balance between prayer and action.

Overcoming Hindrances

  • Lack of Preparation: Seek guidance if unprepared.
  • Lack of Experience: Gain experience through action.
  • Lack of Recognition: Do it as unto the Lord.

Handling Challenges

  • Dealing with Opposition: Men can interfere with God's will, but don't become bitter.
  • Joseph's Story: Example of staying faithful despite opposition leading to eventual fulfillment of God's will.
  • Need for Supernatural Strength: God will strengthen and not forsake you.

Conclusion

  • Encouragement to find and do God's will.
  • Importance of recognizing different fields and staying resilient in difficult areas.
  • Final remarks on faith, trust in God's direction, and submission to His will.