{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"35. Desired End State","description":"Today\u2019s Scripture reading comes from 2 Corinthians 1:20, quoting from the NASB: \u201cFor as many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore, also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us.\u201d Spare me the goat trails. Just give me a straight answer! Ever had one of those days when all you wanted was a straight answer? If the Corinthian people ever desired a straight answer, Paul gave it to them. God\u2019s promises are \u201cYes,\u201d and the appropriate response is \u201cAmen\u201d (so let it be). There\u2019s no gray, no verbal spin, only a matter of fact \u201cYes.\u201d Leaders operate in a fact-based realm that sometimes calls for rapid fire decisions. Paul, Silvanus and Timothy preached a fact-based gospel. In our flesh, so much of what we say is colored with political viewpoints and opinions, but God has not called us to deal in questionable, opinionated answers. His Word is sure and certain. How can we know that His Word is true? Consider Paul\u2019s approach, written about in Acts chapter 18: \u201cWhen Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul began devoting himself completely to the Word, solemnly testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ.\u201d Paul\u2019s unwavering confidence in the Lord\u2019s intent and direction enabled him to speak truth and to move on when his message was rejected. Are you seeking clarity from God on a matter but are uncertain that you are hearing correctly? Here is a thought: Do not ask for something for yourself but ask that His will in that situation be done and earnestly desire to be part of the answer. God cannot say no to what He has already said yes to.   \/\/ Points to Ponder Over the next week, here are 3 points to ponder during your personal time of reflection or with a small group or mentor. First, how do we know the truth? Those who continue in His Word know the truth. Second, God grants clarity to the concerns of our heart as we spend time with Him and seek His guidance. Third, are you embracing the promises of God, or are you relying on your own understanding?   \/\/ About the Narrator COL Laurence Mixon, USA, a 1986 graduate of the US Military Academy at West Point, retired in June 2016 after a 30-year career with the Army and transitioned to an Army Senior Executive assignment at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD. He served on the OCF Council from 2011-2019 and has also been active as a local leader in OCF. He and his wife, Tracey, have 8 children.   \/\/ Purchase a Copy Call the OCF Home Office at 800-424-1984 to purchase a paperback copy of the book, or buy a Kindle version at Amazon. ","author_name":"Leader, Draw Near","author_url":"http:\/\/ldnpodcast.libsyn.com\/website","html":"