Do you admire people who have great willpower? Perhaps it should be termed won’t power. They won’t give in and won’t be swayed from their determined course. Yet how do you distinguish this from willfulness? This refers to stubbornness. Willpower is commendable if it is used for admirable ends, but my word commends those of a broken spirit and a contrite heart. There is too much of human effort in willpower, which in Biblical terms is the works of the flesh, and not enough of divine grace. Human strength will not accomplish the works of God, and those who serve me effectively have learned that my strength is perfected in their weakness. 

Are you tired? Accept my invitation to come to me, all ye who are weary and heavy laden, and you will find rest for your souls, for my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Do you think that rest alone will restore you? If you are trying to do more than I assign you no amount of rest will restore you. I gently chided Martha who was careful and troubled about many things. When I give you an assignment I give you the ability and strength and all other resources you need to carry it out. If you take up burdens of your own choice where will you find the resources to carry them? Be content with the burdens I give you, for these are custom made for you. 

Have you encountered would-be evangelists who attempt to spread the gospel message by attacking other faiths? In a courtroom a witness who is combative and troublesome is called a hostile witness. Unfortunately the same concept applies outside of courtrooms. There are some doctrines that are essential to the gospel message, and these are basic and simple. Is it necessary to bring up the doctrinal differences you have with other denominations when you present the gospel to the lost? This only confuses them and presents the Christian faith as contentious. The gospel is a positive message. Present it that way. 

Have you ever engaged in a ministry opportunity in the belief that you were obeying me and had it not turn out well, or the way you expected? Do you find this discouraging, or does it cause you to doubt your ability to discern my guidance? Let not your heart be troubled. I am pleased with your obedience and that is all I ask of you. Walk in the light given to you and trust me to make your efforts effective. Your expectation of a certain outcome is your assumption and not a part of my guidance for you to obey. How can you be sure that things went wrong? Remember that I am in control, my good and faithful servant.