III.Permissive Will of God vs. Direct Will of God

This book contrasts the permissive will of God with the direct will of God. The permissive will allows people to follow their own desires, such as choosing temporary comforts, seeking extended time, manipulating finances, or building ministries on human plans. While these may bring short-term satisfaction, they often lead to disappointment and regret. In contrast, the direct will of God reflects His perfect plan: seeking His kingdom first, surrendering daily, living in prayer, meditating on Scripture, and trusting Him for provision. It is illustrated when believers, like the boy who offered his small lunch, yield what little they have and let God multiply it. It is seen in pastors and missionaries who depend on the Spirit rather than their own strategies. This path produces lasting joy, eternal fruit, a strong witness for Christ, and a vibrant church filled with genuine worship and fellowship as it eagerly awaits the Lord’s return. Therefore, let us study Scripture inductively, verse by verse, so that we may follow Jesus more closely and grow to become more like Him.

“Counting the Cost: The Unfinished Tower: Jesus’ warning about counting the cost—illustrated by the builder who first calculates whether he can finish his tower in Luke 14:28 “For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it”— this passage is exclusively a warning about the personal cost of discipleship, not a model for church fundraising or financial campaigns. The “tower” symbolizes the lifelong commitment to following Christ, which demands supreme love for Jesus above family, self, and possessions. This discipleship requires the constant act of bearing one’s cross—an ongoing, humble submission and obedience to Christ—and forsaking all that might obstruct one’s spiritual journey. Offerings, therefore, should be understood personally, reflecting an individual’s love and submission to Christ, not as a response to external pressure for organizational projects. Misusing this verse to coerce giving for church buildings or projects drifts into relying on human ambition rather than genuine submission to God’s will. True discipleship is marked by this profound personal sacrifice, where the cost is measured by one’s willingness to prioritize Jesus above everything else.” Excerpted from This Book.