Message: “Discerning God’s Will for the New Year” from Joe Summers

Discerning God's Will for the New Year Theme: As we step into a new year, it's crucial to align our lives with God's purposes and to seek His wisdom in making decisions. Lesson Objective: To equip all of us with Biblical principles and practical tools for discerning God's will, empowering them to make choices that honor Him and lead to a fulfilling year. Introduction Start with a relatable scenario: "Imagine you have two important decisions to make next semester – one that seems exciting but might lead you away from your faith, and another that's less glamorous but aligns with your values. How do you choose?" This year, we want to make choices that honor God. Today, we'll discuss how to listen to His voice and discern His will." Scripture : Proverbs 3:5-6: Read the verses. Think about what it means to "trust in the LORD with all your heart" and "lean not on your own understanding." Discuss the promise that "he will make your paths straight." Abraham. When God called him to leave his homeland and go to a place he didn't know (Genesis 12), Abraham didn't lean on his own understanding. He trusted God implicitly. His obedience, though it involved uncertainty, led to him becoming the father of a great nation, fulfilling God's grand plan. Isaiah 48:17: Read the verse. Highlight that God teaches us what is best and directs us. This isn't a hidden secret; He actively wants to guide us. Connecting to the New Testament Romans 12:2: Read the verse. Discuss the concept of "renewing your mind." How does our thinking need to change to understand God's will? Contrast conforming to the world with being transformed by God. James 1:5: Read the verse. Emphasize God's generous, faultless giving of wisdom. This is an invitation to ask! Modern-Day Example (Career/Calling): Many students are discerning their future careers. Is it about prestige, money, or fulfilling a calling? God's will often involves using our unique gifts and passions to serve Him and others, even if it's not the most conventional path. Think of students who are called to ministry, social work, education in underserved communities, or entrepreneurship with an ethical foundation Practical Example The key to aligning career choices with God-given gifts is to first recognize and embrace those gifts, then intentionally seek work that allows you to use them in service to others while staying true to your values. ________________________________________ Steps to Align Career Choices with God-Given Gifts • Identify Your Gifts and Talents Scripture teaches that “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us” (Romans 12:6). Take time to reflect on your natural abilities, passions, and strengths. These may include leadership, creativity, teaching, compassion, or problem-solving thecareerchristian.com. • Seek God’s Guidance in Prayer Career decisions can feel overwhelming, but prayer helps align ambition with God’s calling. Asking for wisdom and discernment ensures that choices are not just about personal gain but about fulfilling a higher purpose thecleaver.org. • Match Gifts with Service God’s gifts are meant to bless others. Choosing a career that allows you to serve—whether through healthcare, education, business, or ministry—ensures your work glorifies God and benefits people thecareerchristian.com. • Evaluate Values and Integrity A career should not compromise your faith. Assess whether the role aligns with Christian values such as honesty, stewardship, and compassion. This ensures that your work reflects your beliefs sharethestruggle.org. • Consider Impact Beyond Yourself Many Christians seek careers that positively impact the world. Aligning your gifts with roles that promote justice, healing, or innovation can magnify your influence while staying faithful to God’s plan christiansforimpact.org. • Be Open to Unexpected Paths Sometimes God leads in surprising directions. Opportunities may arise that don’t fit your initial plan but still allow you to use your gifts meaningfully. Flexibility is part of trusting His guidance sharethestruggle.org. ________________________________________ Biblical Perspective • 1 Peter 4:10-11 reminds believers to “use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace.” • Work is not just about earning a living—it’s a calling to live out faith through service and excellence christianitypath.com. ________________________________________ Practical Actions • Take a spiritual gifts inventory or personality assessment to clarify strengths. • Journal about moments when you felt most fulfilled—these often reveal where your gifts shine. • Seek mentorship from faith-driven professionals who can help you discern career paths. • Regularly revisit your career choices to ensure they still align with your gifts and God’s direction. Modern-Day Application & Examples: Modern-Day Example (Decision-Making): Consider a student facing a choice between two internship opportunities. One pays more but is in a morally questionable environment. The other is less lucrative but aligns with their values and offers opportunities to serve others. Discerning God's will involves prayer, seeking godly counsel, considering the impact on their spiritual life, and looking for opportunities to honor God. Try to align your decisions with your God-given gifts. Discussion Prompt: "What are some practical steps you can take this week to seek God's wisdom for a decision you are facing?" Conclusion & Prayer Reiterate that discerning God's will is a process of listening, trusting, and obeying. Encourage them to commit to asking God for wisdom daily.

More Messages from Joe Summers

From Series: "Sunday Service"

These are the regularly scheduled Sunday lessons