INTRODUCTION

In the second part of this series we found out that visions belong to the spiritual realm and God allows visions for various reasons and that visions are more frequent in times of crisis than in the time of peace. As indicated in the first part of this series, God can make His will known to us in many ways, each distinct and different. Now we want to look at other ways He makes His will known to us; may we be blessed as we learn in Jesus name. Amen.

HIS WORD

The Bible is God’s written word, and God uses it to speak to us as we read. The Bible remains our first and prime source which we may draw upon to ascertain God’s will for our lives. Of course the Bible does not, nor could it, lay down exact rules for every act of our lives. There are many things that we have to learn by other means, nevertheless the great principles governing Christian living are clearly established in God’s word and these principles can be applied to many decisions we have to make. It is therefore of great importance that every Christian who seeks to have his life conform to God’s will should regularly read and study the Bible.

Jn. 5:39; Dan.9:1-3: Deut.8:3; Ps.119:43; Lk.24:27; Jn.7:42; Jn.10:35; Acts 17:11; 2Tim.3:16.

THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Another profound way to know the will of God is through the gifts of the Holy Spirit, especially the gifts of prophecy, word of knowledge, word of wisdom, tongues and interpretation of tongues. All these gifts will reveal the will of God to us, although it is erroneously thought that prophecy is the only gift that reveals the mind of God to man. Prophesying is not the same as giving a word of prophesy which is what the prophet does. You don’t have to occupy the prophetic office to prophesy. Paul indeed says we should prophesy than speak in tongues. Prophesying simply means speaking or declaring the word of God with faith and it is to edify i.e. build up in faith, exhort i.e. encourage to move forward and comfort i.e. reassure and calm. A prophetic word should confirm what you already know deep down in your heart. However, at all times, it must agree with scripture. A prophet on the other hand can tell things yet to happen or warn of impending judgement and declare God’s mind at a particular time regarding people or situations.

1Corin.12:4:11; 1Corin.14:3-5; 1Corin.13:9; Rom.12:6; Joel2:28; 1Pet.1:21: Rev.1:3; 1Tim.4:14; 2Pet.1:20.

CIRCUMSTANCES

Circumstances is another way God can make His will known to us. This is however tricky and should only be resorted to as a last resort because the devil finds it easy to manipulate. Some people go through life bouncing from one stumbling stone to another and blaming God if they make the wrong choice; this does not mean that God cannot choose to speak to us through that way. It must be emphasised that whether through this way or any other, everything God does is in response to our prayers. When we call to Him in prayers He may respond in any way He likes.

Gen.24:12-14; Judges 6:36-40; Acts.1:15-26.