From the Home Place

October 5, 2025

Wow! When I put Coffee (our dog) outside at 5:15 a.m. the wind was blowing, rain was falling and it’s just plain cold out there. Two days ago, I was hunting a shade tree by ten o’clock.

I would suspect that most all of us have spent some time attempting to determine what the Lord wants us to do next? We tend to say something like, “I just want to do God’s will for my life.” And as noble as that may sound, in my opinion it isn’t all that difficult to understand God’s will for our lives.

In the past I have written about how in the Garden, Jesus prayed for HIs Father’s will to be done. It appears to me that Jesus was asking the Father to help be obedient, even unto the point of death. Previously in Luke 4:43, Jesus reminded His disciples that His purpose was to “preach the kingdom of God to the other cities also.” Thus for me, God’s will is our obedience in whatever He calls us to do, while His purpose is for us to “preach”/declare “the kingdom of God.”

I know, right now you are asking, “well then how am I supposed to declare ‘the kingdom of God? What is His “purpose” for my life?’” Great question, simple answer – 1 Corinthians 10:31 challenges us, “whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” So whether you are being a mom, a teacher, a construction worker, a rancher or farmer, a parent or a student, or anything else, do it “to the glory of God.” Maybe this will help, God’s will for all Christians is complete obedience; while God’s purpose for each person is that which you feel He wants you to do. Will = Being; Purpose = Doing.

So, let’s say you are wondering if God is calling you into a specific ministry, here is my advice: Pray, realize (do you have the spiritual giftedness to do what you think He is calling you to), and look (what are the circumstances of my life). My final comment is always the same, “If you see God opening a door, walk through it. If you see God closing a door, don’t try to kick it open.” Pay attention to what God is doing in and with your life, He sure enough may be wanting you to continue walking down a different path of ministry.

Two elements that I’ve always found to be helpful when I’m searching God’s purpose: prayer & fasting. Pray without ceasing; and fast asking for clarity to hear His voice. I’ve also learned, there is no need to ask if you have no intention of obeying. You can’t trick God into, or out of anything. Remember, He knows the “intentions” of your heart.

Also, never tell God “I can’t!” If He calls you to it, He will equip you for it. And never attempt to tell Him “I won’t!” Completely yield your life to Him and then watch what He can do for you and with you!

Following His lead with you, Neal