Sermon Notes
January 12, 2025
Good Plans
Discovering the Will of God
Rev. Nicole Unice
Romans 12:1-2
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world,but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
1. Recommit
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.
2. Reflect:
Don’t become so well-adjusted to the culture that you fit into it without even thinking.
3. Respond:
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.
Way of the World vs. Ways of the Spirit
Way of the World
- Self and Temporary Focus
- Sexual immorality & impurity
- Idolatry
- Hatred, discord, jealousy, and fits of rage
- Selfish ambition, envy
- Materialistic and Comfort Seeking
- Pursues wealth, status, and possessions: Matthew 6:19
- Prioritizes physical pleasure and stokes pride: James 4:4
- Produces fear and insecurity: 1 John 4:18
Way of the Spirit
- God and Eternal Focus
- Love, joy, and peace
- Patience, kindness, and goodness
- Faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control
- Generous and Joy Seeking
- Forgiveness Minded and Compassion Oriented
- Marked by Generosity of spirit and resource
- Finds satisfaction in God’s presence
- Produces confidence and hope in Christ: Romans 15:13
A Decision Diagnostic:
- Are you burdened?
- Where is your focus?
- How is your prayer life?
- How comfortable are you with not knowing/waiting?
- Who are your wise advisors?
“All my knowledge of him depends on his sustained initiative in knowing me.”
J.I. Packer, Knowing God
