?

been pondering a couple of verses today...

"With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith." 2 Thess 1:11

i was taught when i was young that having a good purpose is insufficient, and that we should act in God's will. so i have had a tendency to wait and not do anything, waiting for "the Voice of God" to speak to me and get me moving. i wonder if that's the way.... or rather, where the balance is found.

and also this:
Again the LORD spoke to Ahaz, "Ask the LORD your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights."
But Ahaz said, "I will not ask; I will not put the LORD to the test."
Then Isaiah said, "Hear now, you house of David! Is it not enough to try the patience of men? Will you try the patience of my God also?

but Jesus quotes the same words in Luke 4, "Do not put the Lord your God to the test". (the original quote is from Deut 6:16 thereabouts.) It looks for all the world like a contradiction to me.... you might say that the LORD spoke specifically commanding Ahaz to ask for a sign, but i have always believed that what God says will always be in accordance with His Word as written in the Scriptures - Ahaz was quoting Scripture, but it angered God? strange....

being a Berean, I am.