Jesus said, “If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I speak from Myself” (John 7:17). In plain words, Jesus is saying that the person who truly wants to obey God will begin to recognize God’s truth. Understanding does not come only from studying more, arguing better, or having all the answers first. It begins with a willing heart.
Many of us want God to explain everything before we take a step. We say, “Lord, show me clearly, and then I will obey.” But Jesus turns that around. He says that when we are willing to do God’s will, even before we fully understand it, our eyes begin to open. Obedience becomes a doorway to clarity.
That is why William Law’s words are so powerful. He said the greatest saint is not simply the person who prays the most, fasts the most, gives the most, or appears the most disciplined. The greatest saint is the one who is always thankful to God, who wants what God wants, and who receives life as coming through God’s goodness.
This kind of life is not passive. It does not mean we pretend everything is easy or that pain does not hurt. It means we keep bringing our will back to God. We say, “Lord, I may not understand this situation, but I want what You want. Teach me to trust You. Teach me to obey You. Teach me to be thankful even here.”
Our thoughts, feelings, and choices are all connected. If our hearts are set on our own way, we will often miss what God is showing us. But when our hearts are surrendered, our minds become more open to His truth. A thankful and obedient spirit helps us see life differently. We stop seeing every inconvenience as an enemy and start asking, “God, what are You teaching me through this?”
The lesson is simple: if you want to know God’s truth, start by being willing to do God’s will. If you want a deeper walk with God, cultivate a thankful heart. Gratitude softens us. Obedience steadies us. Surrender opens us to hear God more clearly.
Today, we can begin with one honest prayer: “Lord, I am willing to do Your will. Help me recognize Your truth, receive Your goodness, and praise You in all things.”
Reflection Questions
1. Pause and name one area where you are asking God for clarity. Now ask yourself: What step of obedience might God be inviting me to take before I have all the answers?
2. Think of one difficult or inconvenient situation you are facing. Write one sentence that begins, “God, help me see Your goodness in this by…”
3. Choose one thing from today that you can thank God for, even if it feels small. Say it out loud or write it down.
4. Check your thoughts: Are they moving you toward trust, gratitude, and surrender—or toward worry, control, and resistance?
5. Pick one simple action for this week: forgive someone, pray before reacting, give thanks instead of complaining, or obey something God has already made clear.
Short Prayer
Lord, I come to You with an open heart. I do not always understand what You are doing, and sometimes I want answers before I take the next step. But today, I ask You to help me trust You more deeply. Give me a heart that wants Your will, even when it is not easy. Teach me to notice Your goodness in ordinary moments, to give thanks instead of complaining, and to obey what You have already shown me. Shape my thoughts, calm my feelings, and lead my choices so my life reflects Your love and truth. Amen.
Minister A Francine Green, September 2026