Acts 49: Discovering and Walking in God's Will

I felt like I had just sort of stumbled through life for a long time. Nothing terrible had happened, in fact, life had been pretty good, all things considered.

But something was missing. I felt that God deserved a better version of me than one that seemed to be moving through life without a clear connections.

This time it was my work. I didn’t feel like my job was serving God the way I felt he wanted me to. But I wasn’t sure.

Michelle and I prayed, our friends prayed with us.

It was a struggle. Whatever joy I had in knowing that we were on track to own our own business - a dream of mine for as long as I can remember - was replaced by this anxiety over getting this wrong and leaving it all behind - being one of the biggest mistakes of my life.

There was this feeling of uncertainty in my gut… If i walk away - am I doing the right thing?

I wanted to do what was right, but I wasn’t completely sure this was it.

So we prayed and we prayed.

Since then, I have come to realize that God has uniquely gifted me to build up and encourage the body of Christ. This is why I am here. So that’s no longer a struggle for me… I have other struggles… do i do it here or there, this way or that way… those I pray through… but I come at them with confidence.

Transition:

We’ve all had these moments in life where we ask, “What is God’s will for me?” Today, we’re going to look at how Paul’s journey can help us discover God’s will and give us the courage to follow it.

WE: Shared Struggle

We all wrestle with finding God’s will

Most of us have been in situations where we long to know God's specific direction for our lives, whether it’s in relationships, career decisions, or personal struggles.

If you are a believer, you want to do “the right thing”

Even if you aren’t a born again believer, there is still a desire in you to do the best thing… not to satisfy with good, we want what’s best.

The tension between following God's will and facing opposition

But, the problem is, when we seek the greatest good… or when we seek God's will, we run face first into discouragement, doubt, or even well-meaning advice that may conflict with what we sense God calling us to do.

People are full of advice aren’t they… usually it’s advice they don’t follow though.

We know we’re called to follow God, but it’s hard when following Him means stepping into discomfort or the unknown.

Transition:

Let’s look at Paul, a man who knew exactly whose he was and what he was called to do, despite the challenges and warnings he faced.

Join me in your Bible - Acts chapter 21: 1-14. Let’s read it together:

Acts 21:1–4 NIV84

1 After we had torn ourselves away from them, we put out to sea and sailed straight to Cos. The next day we went to Rhodes and from there to Patara. 2 We found a ship crossing over to Phoenicia, went on board and set sail. 3 After sighting Cyprus and passing to the south of it, we sailed on to Syria. We landed at Tyre, where our ship was to unload its cargo. 4 Finding the disciples there, we stayed with them seven days. Through the Spirit they urged Paul not to go on to Jerusalem.

What is going on here? Did the Spirit change his mind?

Acts 21:5–12 NIV84

5 But when our time was up, we left and continued on our way. All the disciples and their wives and children accompanied us out of the city, and there on the beach we knelt to pray. 6 After saying good-by to each other, we went aboard the ship, and they returned home. 7 We continued our voyage from Tyre and landed at Ptolemais, where we greeted the brothers and stayed with them for a day. 8 Leaving the next day, we reached Caesarea and stayed at the house of Philip the evangelist, one of the Seven. 9 He had four unmarried daughters who prophesied. 10 After we had been there a number of days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. 11 Coming over to us, he took Paul’s belt, tied his own hands and feet with it and said, “The Holy Spirit says, ‘In this way the Jews of Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and will hand him over to the Gentiles.’ ” 12 When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem.

There we see… a dramatic warning...

The Spirit was giving his friends bad news and they took it as a warning not to go…

Paul simply took it as an invitation to obedience. Remember back in Acts 20:22–23 “22 “And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. 23 I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me.”

All the problems Paul had faced up until this point, God had come through. Again and again.

Whether arrested or in Jail, or hungry or sick, Lost or shipwrecked, God had shown up every time and worked in or through his circumstances to expand his kingdom.

Acts 21:13–14 NIV84

13 Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” 14 When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, “The Lord’s will be done.”

One thing we can definitely say about Paul is that he was a man on a mission.

Paul, a Man on a Mission

He was a very unique leader in the history of the church… for that matter the world. I would say that because of what he did and wrote, Paul would be one of the top 5 leaders in history. We read the book of Acts and we think Paul was some sort of Superman. It’s true, but instead of an S on his shirt… there was a big M… Messiah. That was Paul’s source of power and influence.

He was also a man motivated by deep conviction to the Spirit’s leading. What else would lead him, knowing that trouble is coming when he takes this path to say -

“I am ready not only to be bound but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” His motivation and resolve were clear.

But what was it that motivated him? He was a normal man, he didn’t have a suicide complex… what was his motivation?

Three things I think we can see from this text and his writings.

First

Paul was motivated by Love for God’s People

Paul’s deep love for the Jewish people drove him back to Jerusalem, even though many of them opposed him. He knew they needed to hear and understand the message of Jesus, even if they had rejected it before.

Later on he would write:

Romans 10:1 NIV84

1 Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved.

Romans 9:2–3 “2 I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. 3 For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, those of my own race,”

Paul was motivated by Love for the Gospel

Paul’s mission was driven by his passion for the Gospel. He believed wholeheartedly in the good news of Jesus Christ—that salvation through Christ was available to both Jews and Gentiles.

Romans 1:16 “16 I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.”

2 Corinthians 5:14–15 NIV84

14 For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.

He wasn’t deterred by the dangers because the Gospel was worth everything to him.

Paul was motivated by an understanding that it’s all about Jesus

Paul had had an undeniable encounter with Jesus on the road… in the jail… in front of thousands… over the sick… he knew who all this was about and it wasn’t Paul.

Galatians 2:20 NIV84

20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Paul understood that his life was not his own. It was all about Jesus—his life, his message, and his mission.

As he told the elders back in Ephesus:

Acts 20:24 NIV84

24 However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.

His personal comfort or safety was secondary to the glory of Jesus and advancing the Gospel.

Philippians 1:21 “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

Despite the warnings from others, Paul was convinced that he belonged to Jesus and Jesus had a purpose for his life.

This conviction of identity and purpose gave him the confidence to press forward, even knowing that hardship was inevitable.

Paul was no superman… But he did have extraordinary courage and confidence.

Paul’s courage and confidence came from knowing his identity in Christ and being fully committed to God’s will for his life.

IV. YOU: How Do We Know God’s Will for Ourselves?

How Do We Know God’s Will for Ourselves?

A. We will never know who we really are until we know:

Know who(se) you really are

Like Paul, we need to understand our identity in Christ. We are children of God, loved and chosen, and when we live from that place of belonging, we can face anything.

Scripture reference:

Romans 8:16–17 NIV84

The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

Know why you are really here

Each of us has a unique calling and purpose, just as Paul knew his mission was to spread the Gospel. Understanding why we’re here helps us make sense of our journey and decisions.

Scripture reference:

Ephesians 2:10 NIV84

For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

I want to close with an encouragement for you to keep these right up front in your mind… pray them, read scripture about them… because if we aren’t careful, we will forget.

We need tunnel vision.

Anyone else get tunnel vision like this… where nothing else matters. You are able to block out all the distractions? I do from time to time and my wife hates it. She says I don’t listen to her… the fact is it’s like I’m in a bubble and I hear her, but it doesn’t break through my focus. I tell her… get my attention before you start telling me what you need because I don’t hear you clearly.

Remember whose you are and why your are here

We tend to forget when… We are more concerned with following people than Christ

Sometimes, we get caught up in pleasing others or following human wisdom instead of listening to Christ. Paul faced this when his friends and companions, out of love, urged him not to go to Jerusalem.

Question: Are there people in your life who, though well-meaning, might be pulling you away from God’s will?

We tend to forget when… We pursue success or comfort instead of obedience

Our culture often prioritizes success, safety, and comfort, but sometimes following God means stepping out of those comforts. Paul wasn’t seeking personal gain—he was seeking obedience to God.

Question: Are you prioritizing comfort or success over obedience to God’s call in your life?

V. US: Together, Living in God’s Will

The key to courage and confidence is understanding our identity

A. What would happen if we all embraced our identity in Christ?

Imagine what our church and community would look like if we truly lived out our identity as God's people. Like Paul, if we were driven by a love for people and a passion for the Gospel, we would see transformation in our communities.

B. We are called to support one another in our journey

Just as Paul had companions on his journey, we too are meant to walk with others as we seek God’s will. As a church, we can encourage each other, offering prayer and wisdom as we discern God’s direction together. That’s why we have small group Bible studies, that’s why we encourage one another to serve as part of a team.

Because the more time we spend together in Gospel relationships, the more we will love one another, and the more we love one another, the more we will encourage one another with the truths of our identity found in the Gospel.

C. Call to Action:

Let’s commit, as a church family, to live with the same courage and confidence that Paul had—rooted in our identity in Christ. Let’s encourage one another to walk in obedience to God’s will, even when it’s challenging.

How can you do that?

First, you can join a small group, a bible study, or a team of other in ministry in the church or in our community.

The second way to live with courage and confidence is to look for things to do that requires faith. You want stronger faith, then you have to exercise it.

All the encouragement in the world that I get from you all won’t help me much if I’m not going to the gym. Going to the gym won’t help if I don’t do something there.

Same here. We want stronger faith, Know whose you are, know why he has us here, and do something… as you do, watch for Him to show up.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, We come before you now, humbled and grateful for your love that pursues us and calls us into a deeper relationship with you. You have spoken to us today about the courage and confidence that come from knowing who we truly are in Christ—your sons and daughters, redeemed and chosen for your purposes.

Lord, we confess that too often we have tried to write our own story. We have pursued our own plans, followed the ways of the world, and forgotten that we belong to you. But today, we hear your call to surrender. We hear your voice inviting us to lay down our pride, our fear, and our confusion, and to step into the identity and purpose you created us for.

Father, right now, we surrender. We give you our hearts, our minds, and our lives. We repent of our sins—those things that have separated us from you. We confess that we have fallen short, that we have rebelled against your will, and we need your grace. Forgive us, Lord.

And today, for those who have not yet made that decision, I pray: If there is anyone here who is ready to be born again, to start fresh, to be made new in Jesus Christ, I invite you to pray with me now. Lord Jesus, I believe that you are the Son of God. I believe that you came to this earth, lived a perfect life, and died on the cross for my sins. I believe that you rose again to give me new life. Today, I turn away from my sin and I ask you to be my Lord and my Savior. I surrender my life to you, and I ask you to lead me, guide me, and fill me with your Spirit. I belong to you, Jesus. Thank you for your forgiveness, your love, and your grace. In your name, I pray. Amen.

Father, as we come to your table, we remember the sacrifice of your Son. We remember that through his broken body and shed blood, we are forgiven and restored. We come now to celebrate that gift of grace, knowing that in Christ, we are new creations. As we take this bread and this cup, remind us that we belong to you, and give us the courage to walk in the identity and purpose you have given us.

We thank you, Lord, for the gift of salvation. We thank you that we can come to your table and experience the fullness of your love and grace. As we receive these holy elements, strengthen us to live out your will in our lives, to be bold witnesses of your truth, and to walk in the power of your Spirit.

We pray all this in the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.

HOLY COMMUNION

The Prayer of Great Thanksgiving and Confession

The Lord be with you. And with your spirit. Lift up your hearts. We lift them up to the Lord.

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right and good to give him thanks and praise.

It is right and our joy to give thanks to you in all places and at all times, Almighty Father. You are the source of our courage, confidence, and identity, for you have called us to be your children and equipped us to follow your will. When we face uncertainty, you remain steadfast, guiding us through your Spirit and your Word.

You made us in your image and breathed life into us. Though we turned away in sin, your love pursued us, and through Christ, you redeemed us and called us back to yourself. You delivered us from captivity, freed us from fear, and gave us a new identity as your beloved children in Christ.

And so, with angels, archangels, and all the company of heaven, we proclaim your glory, saying:

Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of power and might, Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

The Prayer of Confession

Merciful God, We confess that we have not always lived according to your will. Though you have called us your own, we have often forgotten whose we are. We have pursued success, comfort, and approval from others instead of obedience to your Word. We have neglected to love as you love, serve as you serve, and trust as you trust. Forgive us, Lord, for placing our desires above your kingdom. Forgive us for the times we have doubted your plans and sought our own way. Help us to remember who we are in you and to live with courage and confidence in your will.

(Moment of silent confession)

Words of Assurance

Almighty God, in his mercy, has given his Son to die for us, and for his sake, forgives us all our sins. As we place our trust in him, we are renewed and restored, empowered to walk in the fullness of life as his beloved children. Thanks be to God!

All praise and glory are yours, Almighty Father, for in your tender mercy, you sent your Son, Jesus Christ, to be our Savior. His life, death, and resurrection reveal to us our true identity as beloved children of God, heirs with Christ, and citizens of your kingdom.

The Consecration

On the night that he was betrayed, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread; and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take, eat; This is my body, which is given for you: Do this in remembrance of me.”

Likewise, after supper, Jesus took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink this, all of you, for this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you, and for many, for the forgiveness of sins: Whenever you drink it, do this in remembrance of me.”

Therefore, we proclaim the mystery of faith: Christ has died. Christ has risen. Christ will come again.

We celebrate this memorial of our redemption, O Father, giving thanks for the death and resurrection of your Son, Jesus Christ. Sanctify these gifts of bread and wine by your Word and Holy Spirit, making them for us the holy body and blood of Christ.

Sanctify us also, that we may worthily receive this holy sacrament. Strengthen us in our identity as your children and fill us with the courage and confidence to walk in your will. By your Spirit, make us one with Christ and one with each other, that we may reflect your love and grace to the world.

In the fullness of time, gather us together with all your saints in your eternal kingdom, where we shall see our Lord face to face. Through your Son, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in your holy Church, all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and forever. Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the Kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

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Conclusion:

Final Thought:

The key to courage and confidence in our Christian life is understanding our identity is found in Christ. When we know whose we are - a redeemed child of God - and why we’re here - to glorify Him through obedience to His will - we can walk boldly in God’s will, no matter the challenges our world may present to us.

Prayer:

Gracious and loving God, We come before you today with hearts full of gratitude for your presence among us. You have reminded us through your Word that we are your beloved children, called to live with courage and confidence, knowing who we are in Christ. We thank you for the example of the Apostle Paul, whose life demonstrated the power of trusting in your will, even when the path was uncertain and difficult.

Lord, we confess that there are times when we lose sight of our identity in you. We are distracted by the voices of the world, the pull of comfort, and the desire for approval. Help us to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, and to walk confidently in the path you have laid before us.

As we go forth from this place, may your Spirit guide us in every step we take. Give us the courage to follow your will, even when it leads us into discomfort or requires sacrifice. Help us to live lives that reflect your love, your grace, and your truth to the world around us.

For those among us who are facing difficult decisions, grant them your wisdom and peace. For those who are weary or burdened, lift their spirits and renew their strength. And for all of us, Lord, draw us closer to you, that we may walk in the fullness of your will with the confidence that comes from knowing we belong to you.

We offer this prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, Amen.

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