Sometimes after He has prompted us to go another direction, we still keep pressing on with our original plan, while actually asking Him to help us do what He said not to do!
"God, help me—I'm so close to finishing—Lord, just help me do a little more, and I'll be done!" If we are doing something He has not approved, He is under no obligation to give us the energy to do it.
We are functioning in our own strength, rather than under the control of the Holy Spirit, because we are doing something God has told us not to do! Then we get so frustrated, stressed or burned out, we lose our self-control, simply by ignoring the prompting of the Spirit.
I believe a major reason many people are stressed and burned out is from going their own way instead of God's way. They end up in stressful situations when they go a different direction from the one God prompted.
Then they burn out in the midst of the disobedience and, struggling to finish what they started outside of God's direction, beg God to anoint them.
God is merciful, and He helps us in the midst of our mistakes. But He is not going to give us strength and energy to disobey Him continually.
We can avoid many stressful situations and living "tied up in knots" simply by obeying the Holy Spirit's promptings moment by moment.
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Joyce Meyer is one of the world's leading practical Bible teachers. A New York Times bestselling author, her books have helped millions of people find hope and restoration through Jesus Christ. Through Joyce Meyer Ministries, she teaches on a number of topics with a particular focus on the mind, mouth, moods and attitudes. Her candid communication style allows her to share openly and practically about her experiences so others can apply what she has learned to their lives.
