Preacher: Pastor Elie Hamuli
In our series “God is Willing,” we’re exploring how God, the powerful and sovereign Creator of everything, remains in control while Satan’s influence rules the earth when people misuse their free will (see Daniel 6:26; 1 John 5:19; Psalms 8:6; Psalms 96:10).
Understanding what is from God and what isn’t prevents us from adopting a passive attitude in our walk with God, whether we face good or tough situations. Renewing our minds means aligning with God and resisting evil (James 4:7; Romans 12:2). Instead of accepting difficult situations, we resist them by praying because we know God is willing to do good.
What is God’s will? God reveals His will and love in His Word by sending His Son, Jesus Christ, to free us from sin (see John 3:16). His will isn’t to make life hard or put obstacles in our way (Lamentations 3:28-33). He sent His Son for our healing (Isaiah 53:5).
God judges us righteously through the new covenant, not based on our actions but with compassion through Jesus’ Cross (Job 9:32-35; Lamentations 3:31-33). He desires all to be saved and turn from wicked ways (1 Timothy 2:3-4; Ezekiel 18:23; 2 Peter 3:9).
Outside God’s will, there’s only the devil’s will. He steals, kills, and rules over our world (John 10:10; Hebrews 2:14). God isn’t responsible for the trouble caused by our choices or the devil’s influence. He’s aware of it but doesn’t approve.
God values free will, designed for us to choose either His kingdom or darkness (Proverbs 18:21; Deuteronomy 30:19). Even when we misuse our free will, God intervenes by providing the Holy Spirit for those who love Him, working out consequences for our good (Romans 8:28).
Deception is thinking free will can exist outside God’s will or the devil’s influence. Our task is to align our free will with God’s. God urges us to choose life, and by speaking His word, we can overcome evil, we can bring the will of God to pass over situations that breathe the schemes of the evil and witness Christ’s victories.
