What steps can we take to grow in understanding God's will for us? Setting the Scene “But they did not understand the statement He was making to them.” (Luke 2:50) Mary and Joseph loved God, yet in this moment they stood baffled before their twelve-year-old Son. Their confusion reminds us that understanding God’s will is a journey. Scripture gives clear, practical steps to grow in that understanding. Acknowledging Our Limits • Admit we don’t automatically grasp everything God says. • Humility opens the door: “The secret things belong to the Lord our God” (Deuteronomy 29:29). • A teachable spirit invites further light (Proverbs 11:2). Staying Close to Jesus • Mary and Joseph found clarity only after returning to the Temple—where Jesus was. • Draw near daily: worship, linger in His presence, prioritize fellowship with Him (John 15:4). • The closer we stay, the clearer His voice sounds (John 10:27). Listening to God’s Word • God’s will never contradicts Scripture, so saturate your heart with it. • “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) • Read, meditate, memorize—then watch confusion fade. Seeking Wisdom in Prayer • “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously.” (James 1:5) • Prayer isn’t a formality; it’s asking for divine insight that aligns our thoughts with His. • Pray before decisions, during study, and when circumstances perplex. Obeying the Light We Have • God reveals more to those who act on what they already know (John 7:17). • Mary treasured Jesus’ words, pondering them until fuller understanding came (Luke 2:51). • Small steps of obedience pave the road to bigger revelations. Walking with Godly Community • Even the most devoted parents needed each other to process Jesus’ words. • Seek wise counsel: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22) • Church, study groups, and mature believers help confirm direction. Renewing the Mind Continually • “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2) • Replace cultural noise with biblical truth; discernment sharpens over time. Waiting Patiently with Trust • Understanding may unfold slowly—years passed before Mary fully grasped Jesus’ mission. • “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.” (Psalm 37:7) • Trust that God’s timing is as perfect as His guidance. Putting It All Together 1. Humble yourself. 2. Stay close to Jesus. 3. Immerse in Scripture. 4. Pray for wisdom. 5. Act on what you know. 6. Lean on godly counsel. 7. Renew your mind. 8. Wait with confident trust. Walk these steps consistently, and the God who guided a carpenter and his wife will guide you just as surely—turning confusion into clarity and uncertainty into steady, joyful obedience. |
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