Aligning Earthly Lives with Divine Will

 

Summary

In reflecting on the profound prayer, "Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven," we are called to align our earthly lives with the divine order of heaven. This alignment is not merely about passive acceptance but an active, joyful participation in God's will, even when it leads us through trials and sacrifices. The prayer is a bold declaration of faith, acknowledging that God's wisdom surpasses our understanding and that His plans, though sometimes hidden, are always for our ultimate good.

We are reminded of the example set by Jesus, who, in His moment of greatest anguish, submitted to the Father's will with the words, "Not as I will, but as Thou wilt." This submission is not a resignation to fate but a trust in God's perfect plan, even when it involves personal loss or the sacrifice of those we hold dear. The deaths of missionaries, for instance, are not in vain but are part of a divine strategy that we may not fully comprehend. Their sacrifices lay the foundation for future generations and inspire us to live with the same dedication and courage.

The prayer also challenges us to consider the nature of our obedience. It is not enough to do God's will; we must do it as it is done in heaven—joyfully, wholeheartedly, and without hesitation. This requires a transformation of our hearts and minds, a renewal that only the Holy Spirit can accomplish. We are called to a higher standard of service, one that reflects the purity and fervor of the heavenly hosts.

Moreover, the prayer is a call to action. It urges us to spread the knowledge of God's will throughout the earth, recognizing that His will cannot be done where it is not known. This is the essence of the missionary enterprise, a task that demands our resources, our efforts, and our lives. We are to live as citizens of heaven, investing in eternal treasures and seeking to bring others into the joy and peace of God's kingdom.

In essence, this prayer is a commitment to live a life that mirrors the harmony and obedience of heaven, a life that is a testament to God's glory and a beacon of hope to a world in need.

Key Takeaways

- Submission to Divine Will: Embracing God's will, even in suffering, is a profound act of faith. Jesus exemplified this in Gethsemane, teaching us to trust God's wisdom beyond our understanding. Our trials, though painful, are part of a divine plan that ultimately serves a greater purpose. [01:22]

- The Value of Sacrifice: The sacrifices of missionaries and believers are not wasted. They lay the groundwork for future generations and inspire us to live with courage and dedication. Their lives, though seemingly cut short, continue to speak and influence the world. [06:15]

- Joyful Obedience: True obedience to God is not just about actions but the spirit in which they are done. We are called to serve God joyfully and wholeheartedly, reflecting the fervor and purity of the heavenly hosts. [22:11]

- Active Participation in God's Mission: The prayer "Thy will be done" is a call to action. We are to spread the knowledge of God's will, recognizing that His will cannot be done where it is not known. This requires our resources, efforts, and lives. [39:21]

- Living as Citizens of Heaven: We are to live on earth as citizens of heaven, investing in eternal treasures and seeking to bring others into God's kingdom. Our lives should reflect the harmony and obedience of heaven, serving as a testament to God's glory. [47:27]

Youtube Chapters

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:11] - Introduction to the Prayer
- [00:37] - Submission to God's Will
- [01:09] - Jesus' Example of Obedience
- [01:52] - The Mystery of Sacrifice
- [02:39] - Faith in God's Wisdom
- [03:06] - The Purpose of Bereavement
- [03:49] - The Foundation of Sacrifice
- [05:16] - Renewed Commitment
- [06:01] - The Legacy of Missionaries
- [07:10] - Earth and Heaven's Connection
- [08:24] - The Power of Prayer
- [09:11] - Unity of Creation
- [10:37] - God's Sovereignty
- [12:03] - Restoration of Eden
- [14:25] - Earth as Heaven's Type
- [17:52] - The Nature of Obedience
- [19:06] - Practical Faith
- [22:11] - Revival of Spiritual Life
- [25:10] - Instant Obedience
- [27:01] - Humble Service
- [29:00] - Earth and Heaven's Similarities
- [33:26] - Victory in Christ
- [36:50] - Joy in Service
- [39:21] - Urgency of Mission
- [45:15] - Living as Heavenly Citizens

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 6:10 - "Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven."
2. Luke 22:42 - "Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done."
3. Hebrews 11:4 - "By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh."

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#### Observation Questions
1. What does the phrase "Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven" suggest about the relationship between heaven and earth? [00:11]
2. How did Jesus exemplify submission to God's will in the Garden of Gethsemane, and what does this teach us about facing trials? [01:22]
3. What role do the sacrifices of missionaries play in God's divine plan, according to the sermon? [06:15]
4. How does the sermon describe the nature of obedience that is expected from believers? [22:11]

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#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the sermon interpret the phrase "Thy will be done" as a call to action for believers? What implications does this have for how we live our daily lives? [39:21]
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that earthly obedience should mirror heavenly obedience, and what challenges might this present to believers? [22:11]
3. How does the sermon view the sacrifices of missionaries and believers in the context of God's greater plan? What does this imply about the value of sacrifice in the Christian life? [06:15]
4. What does the sermon suggest about the importance of spreading the knowledge of God's will, and how does this relate to the concept of living as citizens of heaven? [47:27]

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#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult situation. How did you respond, and how might Jesus' example in Gethsemane inspire a different response? [01:22]
2. The sermon emphasizes joyful obedience. Identify an area in your life where you struggle to obey joyfully. What steps can you take to transform your attitude in this area? [22:11]
3. Consider the sacrifices you have made in your life. How do they align with the idea that sacrifices lay the groundwork for future generations? [06:15]
4. How can you actively participate in spreading the knowledge of God's will in your community? What specific actions can you take this week to live as a citizen of heaven? [39:21]
5. Think about a recent decision you made. How did you discern God's will in that situation, and what can you do to ensure your decisions align more closely with His will in the future? [19:06]
6. Identify a resource (time, talent, or treasure) that you can dedicate more fully to God's mission. What practical steps will you take to make this commitment? [47:27]
7. Reflect on your current understanding of God's will. How can you deepen your knowledge and understanding to better align your life with His divine plan? [45:15]

Devotional

Day 1: Embracing God's Will in Trials
In the journey of faith, embracing God's will, even amidst trials, is a profound act of trust. This is not about passive acceptance but an active engagement with the divine purpose, recognizing that God's wisdom surpasses human understanding. Jesus exemplified this in Gethsemane, where He submitted to the Father's will, teaching us to trust in God's perfect plan, even when it involves personal loss or sacrifice. Our trials, though painful, are part of a divine strategy that ultimately serves a greater purpose. [01:22]

Isaiah 55:8-9 (ESV): "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

Reflection: What is one trial you are currently facing where you need to trust in God's wisdom and plan? How can you actively engage with God's purpose in this situation today?


Day 2: The Legacy of Sacrifice
The sacrifices of missionaries and believers are not in vain; they lay the groundwork for future generations and inspire us to live with courage and dedication. Their lives, though seemingly cut short, continue to speak and influence the world. This understanding calls us to view sacrifice not as loss but as a contribution to a divine strategy that we may not fully comprehend. The legacy of these sacrifices challenges us to live with the same dedication and courage, knowing that our efforts are part of a larger, divine narrative. [06:15]

Hebrews 11:13-16 (ESV): "These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland."

Reflection: Reflect on a personal sacrifice you have made or are considering. How might this sacrifice contribute to a larger purpose beyond your immediate understanding?


Day 3: Joyful and Wholehearted Obedience
True obedience to God is not just about actions but the spirit in which they are done. We are called to serve God joyfully and wholeheartedly, reflecting the fervor and purity of the heavenly hosts. This requires a transformation of our hearts and minds, a renewal that only the Holy Spirit can accomplish. By aligning our obedience with the joy and fervor of heaven, we become living testimonies of God's love and grace, inspiring others to seek the same joy in their service to God. [22:11]

Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV): "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."

Reflection: In what area of your life do you struggle to serve God joyfully? What practical steps can you take today to transform this area into one of joyful obedience?


Day 4: Spreading the Knowledge of God's Will
The prayer "Thy will be done" is a call to action, urging us to spread the knowledge of God's will throughout the earth. Recognizing that His will cannot be done where it is not known, we are called to invest our resources, efforts, and lives in this mission. This is the essence of the missionary enterprise, a task that demands our full commitment. By actively participating in God's mission, we help bring others into the joy and peace of God's kingdom. [39:21]

Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV): "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear about God's will and love? How can you take a step today to share this knowledge with them?


Day 5: Living as Citizens of Heaven
We are called to live on earth as citizens of heaven, investing in eternal treasures and seeking to bring others into God's kingdom. Our lives should reflect the harmony and obedience of heaven, serving as a testament to God's glory. This means living with a heavenly perspective, prioritizing eternal values over temporary gains, and inspiring others to do the same. By living as citizens of heaven, we become beacons of hope and love in a world in need. [47:27]

Philippians 3:20-21 (ESV): "But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you can better reflect your heavenly citizenship? How can you begin to make changes today to align more closely with the values of God's kingdom?

Quotes

"Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven." This prayer is a bold declaration of faith, acknowledging that God's wisdom surpasses our understanding and that His plans, though sometimes hidden, are always for our ultimate good. We are reminded of the example set by Jesus, who, in His moment of greatest anguish, submitted to the Father's will with the words, "Not as I will, but as Thou wilt." [00:01:09]

We should not only yield to the divine will but acquiesce in it so as to rejoice in the tribulation which it ordains. This is a high attainment, but we set ourselves to reach it. He that taught us this prayer used it himself in the most unrestricted sense. [00:58:32]

God knows what will best minister to His gracious designs. To us, it seems a sad waste of human life that man after man should go to a malaria region and perish in the attempt to save the heathen, but infinite wisdom may view the matter very differently. [01:12:24]

Our God wastes no consecrated life. He has made nothing in vain. He ordains all things according to the council of His will, and that council never errs. Could the Lord endow us with His own omniscience, we should not only consent to the deaths of His servants but should deprecate their longer life. [01:56:23]

Men die that the cause may live. Father, Thy will be done. With this prayer upon our lips, let us bend low in childlike submission to the will of the great Jehovah and then gird up our loins anew to dauntless perseverance in our holy service. [05:10:48]

The prayer is practical and businesslike: "Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven." An idle man stretched himself on his bed when the sun had risen high in heaven, and as he rolled over, he muttered to himself that he wished this were hard work, for he could do any quantity of it with pleasure. [20:30:36]

In heaven, the will of God is done in spirit, for they are spirits there. It is done in truth with undivided heart and unquestioned desire. On earth, too often it is done, and yet not done, for a dull formality mocks real obedience. [21:22:55]

We are aroused today, but we fall asleep tomorrow. We are diligent for one hour but sluggish the next. This must not be, dear friends. We must be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. We need to pray for sacred perseverance. [22:58:48]

Heaven is by no means the far country, for it is the Father's house. Are we not taught to say, "Our Father which art in heaven"? Where the Father is, the true spirit of adoption counts itself near. Our Lord would have us mingle heaven with earth by naming it twice in this short prayer. [15:56:24]

The fellowship of the Holy Ghost is with us all. It is our joy and our delight. Having communion with the triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—we are uplifted and sanctified, and it is becoming that by us the will of the Lord should be done on earth as it is in heaven. [33:55:04]

God's will can never be intelligently done where it is not known. Therefore, in the first place, it becomes us as followers of Jesus to see to it that the will of the Lord is made known by heralds of peace sent forth from among us. [39:21:00]

If Jesus were in your business, if He had your money, how would He spend it? For that is how you ought to spend it. Now think, my brother, you will be in heaven very soon. Since last year, a great number have gone home. Before next year, many more will have ascended to glory. [47:50:24]

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Transcript
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