Cherishing God's Will Above Our Comfort
In order to begin cherishing God's will above our comfort, the bottom line this. God is God, and His glory should be our pursuit even when it hurts. When Joab and his brother Abishai were surrounded by the Syrians and Ammonites, this is what he said: “Be of good courage, and let us play the man for our people, and for the cities of our God, and may the LORD do what seems good to him” (2 Samuel 10:12)They were ready for battle, but were resolved to whatever outcome God deemed good in His view. Esther echoed a similar refrain: “... I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.” (Esther 4:16)Once again we see an abandonment to God to do what He deems best. I'll do what I know to do to the best of my ability and trust God to have His way. I really feel this is the essence of having faith: trusting God in spite of the outcome. It is a trust in God's goodness (having the best intentions for us), His ability (to do all things), and His wisdom (to do that which will bring Him glory and us joy in Him).
In both passages, the central characters took responsibility, were decisive, yet rescinded themselves to God's will. James encourages us to have this attitude.
Related Post: What is Your Go-To Comfort Giver?
Sometimes, we make plans, speak presumptuously about the plans without any acknowledgment that God should have a say. As if God exists simply to meet our needs or for our sole satisfaction. He warns: "Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.” (James 4:15)
It's time to start cherishing God's will like never before.
His will is our ultimate place of fulfillment, even if it seems like we miss out on some momentary comfort. This is not always easy, and I am sure it was no different for the Bible characters mentioned earlier. But, such trust in God sets the stage for Him to show Himself strong. As tempting as it might be, let not your heart be anchored simply on things hoped for but rather stay grounded on God's goodness, power and wisdom.