“Strong-Willed” has been defined as “determined to do as one wants even if other people advise against it” or “very determined to do something even if other people say it should not be done.” What marks our will?
The actions of a strong-willed child can be a challenge to corral or redirect. However, even as adults we must be mindful of that for which we have a strong will. Understanding the human will can lead on a misguided path (i.e. Proverbs 14:12; 16:25) and even into things which never entered the mind of God (i.e. Jeremiah 32:35), are we duly focusing on surrendering to doing the Father’s will (note Matthew 7:21-23)? Since self-guidance is not adequate in and of ourselves (i.e. Jeremiah 10:23-24) we need to continue looking to the higher way and wisdom of God (Isaiah 55:6-9). If we are going to be strong-willed, it needs to be a will for God’s Will to be done on earth — in and through us — as it is in Heaven! (Matthew 6:10)
If Jesus is truly the Lord of our life and we are in Him, this will be evidenced in living marked by seeking to becoming more and more like Him as we surrender to walking in His steps. As Jesus walked through His ministry on earth, He continued to make it clear. . .
“(30) I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me.” (John 5:30 ESV)
And. . .
“(38) For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me.” (John 6:38 ESV)
Even in facing the coming cross our Lord still expressed this where we read. . .
“(41) And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, (42) saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.”” (Luke 22:41-42 ESV)
Though in the flesh Jesus desired another way, His stronger desire was to fulfill what He came to accomplish on our behalf. Are we seeking to develop such a strong will for allowing the Father’s Will to be worked in and through us as well? Regardless of what we might want or the world around us desires, let us remain as those who have a strong will to “obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29) In this way we will be living the high life of God’s Will being done on earth as it is in Heaven!
Have a great day WITH A STRONG WILL FOR GOD’S WILL TO BE WORKED IN AND THROUGH US!
Carl
