“It’s [the peace of Christ] not just peace in the midst of the storm; it’s peace in the perfect storm. Instead of being scared out of your wits, you have a holy confidence against all odds.”- Mark Batterson
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”- Colossians 3:15 (NIV)
In today’s blog, Mark Batterson concludes his discussion of five tests he employs when discerning God’s will and voice.
2. The Peace Test. When the apostle Paul said to “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts,” Pastor Batterson notes, that doesn’t mean you won’t feel scared or stressed. It simply means you know in your heart of hearts what you’ve discerned as God’s will is the right thing to do.
3. The Wise Counsel Test. As Mark observes, you don’t discern God’s will all by your lonesome. Because solo efforts usually result in losing your way. As a result, Pastor Batterson advises you to surround yourself with people who have:
- experience discerning God’s will
- the ability to bring out the best in you
- permission to speak the truth in love
Seeking wise counsel creates an important check and balance, since we possess an infinite ability to deceive ourselves.
4. The Crazy Test. Pastor Batterson defines a God-sized dream as always beyond our abilities, logic, and resources. Plainly states, it’s impossible to do without God’s help. And often, in the author’s experience, God ideas often seem like crazy ideas.
In addition, Mark states, faith consists of the willingness to look foolish. So when your desire’s the will of God, “crazy turns into crazy awesome.”
5. The Released-from and Called-to Test. Mark compares the will of God to a lock with two pins, called-to and released-from. Sometimes you get released from a current responsibility. However, you feel unsure of God’s next calling. You detect a spiritual no-man’s land. Therefore, until God gives further instructions, Mark advises doing what you last heard Him say.
Today’s question: How does Jesus give you peace in the perfect storm? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: the new Short Meditation, “My God – the strength of my soul”
