How can I know God is working in my life?

Here are a few common but inadequate answers.  Some people suggest looking for persuasive speech, but that alone leads to pride and envy. Others suggest looking for special abilities, but that alone leads to competition and comparison of achievements.  Some prefer looking for extensive Bible knowledge, but that alone leads to more pride and practical hypocrisy.  Others people suggest looking for self-sacrifice, but that alone leads to codependent relationships and conflict.  Some people suggest looking for great acts of generosity, but that alone leads to poverty and more pride.

Loving is Serving

However, the Bible tells us to look for love, because love alone is the most excellent way to know God is working in your life (1 Corinthians 13:1-13 NIV).  When someone asked him what was the greatest commandment, Jesus said: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength” and “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:28-34)

Allow me the privilege of suggesting two applications for the two greatest commandments.

If I love God with all my being, then I will trust and obey him.  I will not make excuses for disregarding God’s clear commands. I will do whatever the Bible says to do even if I don’t understand it all.  If I love my neighbor as myself, then I will put their needs on the same level as my  own.  At church that means, I will seek to do whatever it takes to make it easier for others know Jesus.  At home that means I’ll do the dishes and help with the cleaning . Out in public, that means I’ll hold the door for others or let them go ahead of me in the check our line.

Now what about you?  How would you apply these commandments to your life?  Take a moment to complete those two sentences. “If I love God with all my being, then I will _____________________.  If I love my neighbor as myself, then I will _____________________.”

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