Your Will Your Way

The worship team at church led us in a song we've never sang before. And as I listened to the words of "Lay Me Down", my heart was convicted in a new and powerful way.

"It will be my joy to say Your will, Your way."

I often pray for God's will to be done in my life. And even to remember to ask Him to do things His way once in a while. But it is very rarely joy that compels this thought. More often, I tack the phrase "if it is Your will" onto the end of my own desires as an afterthought.

I know that what God has planned is far better than anything I could contrive on my own. I know that His ways are the path of least resistance. But my stubborn heart has trouble relinquishing control. If you know me at all, this probably does not surprise you. I like to be the boss. And I like things done my way and on my time table. So the thought of giving up even just a tiny bit of my jurisdiction (even if it is the Lord, Himself) makes my stomach hurt.

No, it has been my habit to tell the Almighty Creator of the Universe what I want done, when I want it done and how it should be done. And then I just hope His will is to follow mine. Sadly, this is my heart's attitude more than I would like to admit. Even when I do manage to give myself over to His control, it is more an act of giving up than an expression of joy at having the Master at the helm of my life. Don't get me wrong. The God who knows my every struggle appreciates when I finally lay them in His hands. But what a blessing it must be for Him when I live in anticipation of His will and genuine contentment of His ways!

In all honesty, this lyric is somewhat of a mystery to me. I'm not sure I know how to say "Your will, Your way" with authentic joy. But the Holy Spirit has put it on my heart this week. And I am determined to make this my prayer:

Lord, Your plans are greater than anything than I can imagine for myself. Your ways are perfect and Your timing is impeccable. I don't just want to lay myself down. I want to do it with joy. I cannot do this on my own. Please help me to delight in your will for my life.

Listen to "Lay Me Down" by Chris Tomlin here.