In the sports world one must play by the rules. In the business world there are budgets and guide lines for success. Individuals, young and old, set goals for themselves. They make plans as to how to live their lives, use their talents and invest money. Businesses establish annual budgets and goals to reach financial success. God's people do not operate in this manner. God's people live by the revealed word - the Bible. We know His word makes it possible for man to be complete, thoroughly furnished unto all good works II Tim. 3:17. Man does not decide right and wrong by feelings. God reveals His will for us in His testament. His ways are not our ways (see Isaiah 55:8).
"It is not in man who walks to direct his own steps" Jer. 10:23. "Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint" Proverbs 29:18. That is, they do whatever they desire. They plan according to their own feelings and emotions and pray for God's blessings. Some religious people live far from the revealed word, yet ask for His blessings. I John 5: 14 teaches that we must pray according to His will.
God has revealed His way to us in His Holy word. We cannot determine what is right or wrong in and of our own selves. We do not have the power or ability to save ourselves. We must look to God's revealed word - His revelation to man. His word is our guideline for a successful life.
The apostle John states we will love God and know Him. Also in John 3:22, John gives words of great comfort and assurance - " And whatever we ask we receive from Him, BECAUSE WE KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS DO THOSE THINGS THAT ARE PLEASING IN HIS SIGHT." " Happy is he who keeps the law" Proverbs 29:18.