In John 14:26, we are told that the Holy Spirit teaches us all things. So why do we often struggle to understand his plan? Here are a few of the possible answers to this question:

We make decisions based on our emotions. When life gets tough, our instinct is to walk away from pain, when what we need is to draw closer to Christ. When we think He might not want us to suffer, we are more likely to take action and believe that we are doing His will.

We focus on the immediate. Many times we come to God concerned about what we or our loved ones are facing. We don't understand how a bad situation could possibly be part of his will. Our short-term focus keeps us from seeing the Lord's long-term purposes.

We conduct a superficial search. We can treat the pursuit of God's will as a to-do list: "Read, pray, serve, give." But that can sacrifice both stillness and time needed to listen to God (Psalm 46:10). More than simply investing time with the Lord, listening without distraction is critical.

How much Bible study and prayer is required to discover God's will? As much as it takes to listen to it. He will always respond to his children, so let us have the confidence to approach him.

Suggested Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, this day I ask you to help me focus on you and your Word, so that your will in my life can become clearer. I know sometimes I get carried away with my emotions and want quick fixes, but as it says in Psalm 46:10, I want to sit still and acknowledge that you are God. I pray in the precious name of Jesus, Amen.

1. 1 John 5:13-15 (NIV).

Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.