How Do You Know When It's God?

We write a lot on our blog about following God's plan for your life.  There have been many times I thought I was on a mission from God, I dived right in and then realized...ummm...It so wasn't from God LOL  There have been other times when God directed  me to do something and I was so terrified that I wasn't equipped for job that I questioned myself, asking "Is this really from God?"  When I read this article today, I thought it would be perfect to share with all of you.  Its titled "How Do You Know When It's God?" and written by Brenda Garrison: 

"When women talk with me about pursuing God’s plan for them, one of the most frequently asked questions is, "How do I know it’s God and not me?" Yes, we are thrilled to know that God has uniquely equipped and designed us for His work. Yet, we want to make sure we are hearing from God and not listening to our inner dreamer. The question also hints at a bit of fear. This calling will take all of our courage, so we don’t want to go where God isn’t directing. To help determine when God is directing you, consider the following:

Spend time with God.

You must know God before you can know what He is calling you to do. When you read the Bible, consider what you learn about His characteristics and how He relates to you. This helps you recognize God. Talking to God in alone time with Him and throughout the day opens the lines of communication between you and God. He speaks to and directs you in the way you can understand (John 10:27).

The calling may be outside your comfort zone and perceived capabilities.

In the Old Testament, Moses was described as a man who was content to be a shepherd, husband, and father. One day, God talked to Moses from the burning bush, and told Moses that He wanted him to rescue the Jews from slavery in Egypt. Moses replied with excuses based on fear and perceived inability. Likewise, God’s call may take you outside of your familiar environment. And, you may fear having what it takes.

Determine your motive.

A selfish motive can divert us off God’s path. Beware of desires to build your ministry, or be like someone else in ministry. Take some time with God to analyze what’s driving you. (Psalm 139:23, 24). Also, motives can be tainted by others who think they know God’s plan for us. Make sure God is talking to you, not your pride or a "helpful" friend.

God will make the way.

As you wait to discern God, rest assured that He will lovingly show you the next step or course of action. For example, just before Jesus ascended, He told the apostles to stay in Jerusalem and "wait for the gift my Father has promised." Then, He told them they would receive the Holy Spirit and be His witnesses to all the ends of the earth. Likewise, God will clarify how you are to proceed. Trust Him and wait on His direction.

What is the desire in your heart?

Psalm 34:7 says, "Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart." When we delight ourselves in God, His plans for us will feel natural and exciting, because His purpose will fulfill our lives. In regard to living God’s calling, one woman once told me, "That’s why following God is so fun!"

Finally, relax and trust God to guide and correct you. He wants what is best for you. So, if you head down the wrong path, He will redirect you. He wants you to know His voice, follow His love, and live out your calling with confidence. "

XOXO,

Amberly