In what ways can we align our actions with God's will, as Jeremiah seeks? Knowing God Knows You Jeremiah 12:3: “But You know me, O LORD; You see me and test my heart toward You. Pull them out like sheep for slaughter and set them apart for the day of killing.” • God’s knowledge is personal and complete (Psalm 139:1–2; Hebrews 4:13). • Because He already “tests” the heart, alignment begins with recognizing His perfect insight. Invite His Searchlight • Echo Jeremiah’s openness: “Search me, O God… lead me” (Psalm 139:23–24). • Welcome conviction rather than avoid it (Proverbs 3:11–12). • Regular time in the Word and silent reflection lets the Spirit expose hidden motives (Hebrews 4:12). Obedience That Follows Examination • True alignment moves from heart surrender to concrete action. – “Be doers of the word” (James 1:22). – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). • Choose immediate, specific obedience—apologies offered, sins forsaken, generosity practiced. Separate From Wickedness • Jeremiah asks God to set the wicked apart; believers respond by separating themselves from evil. – “Come out from among them and be separate” (2 Corinthians 6:17). – Hate what is evil; cling to what is good (Romans 12:9). • Evaluate influences—media, friendships, habits—and remove what dulls love for Christ. Entrust Justice to the Lord • Jeremiah appeals for divine judgment instead of personal vengeance. – “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord” (Romans 12:19). • Aligning with God’s will means acting justly (Micah 6:8) while trusting Him to settle ultimate accounts. • Refuse bitterness; leave room for God’s righteous timing (Psalm 37:7–9). Daily Practices That Keep Us Aligned • Word-saturated mind: steady intake of Scripture (Psalm 1:2). • Spirit-led walk: “walk by the Spirit” (Galatians 5:16) and display His fruit (Galatians 5:22–23). • Ongoing repentance: quick to confess, quick to turn (1 John 1:9). • Worship and fellowship: gather with believers for encouragement and accountability (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Purposeful service: use gifts to bless others, proving God’s good will in action (Romans 12:1–2). Living transparently before the One who “knows and tests” our hearts, throwing off evil, embracing obedience, and trusting His justice—this is how our daily steps line up with the will Jeremiah longed to fulfill. |