What is God’s will and How can We Identify it? - September, 2024

Understanding God’s will is a pursuit that many Christians earnestly seek.

It’s the desire to align our lives with God’s purpose, to walk in His ways, and to fulfill the plan He has for us. But what exactly is God’s will, and how can we discern it in our daily lives?

What God’s will is and 10 practical ways to identify it.

What is God’s Will?

God’s will can be understood in two distinct yet intertwined ways: His sovereign will and His moral will.

• Sovereign Will: This refers to God’s ultimate plan and purpose that governs all creation. It’s the unchangeable, predetermined course of events that God has ordained. For example, the coming of Christ and His redemptive work on the cross were part of God’s sovereign will (Ephesians 1:11).
• Moral Will: This refers to the commands and principles God has revealed in Scripture that guide how we should live. It’s God’s will that we live holy, loving, and obedient lives according to His Word (1 Thessalonians 4:3).

While we may not always understand or see the full picture of God’s sovereign will, we are called to live out His moral will daily. The challenge lies in discerning how we can apply God’s will to our personal circumstances and decisions.

10 Ways to Identify God’s Will

1. Study Scripture

The Bible is God’s primary means of revealing His will to us. Through Scripture, we learn about God’s character, His promises, and His commands. Regular study of the Bible helps us align our desires with God’s and understand His moral will for our lives (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

2. Pray for Guidance

James 1:5 encourages us to ask God for wisdom if we lack it. Prayer is a powerful tool in seeking God’s will. Through prayer, we invite the Holy Spirit to guide our thoughts, decisions, and actions, and to reveal the path God wants us to take.

3. Seek Godly Counsel

Proverbs 11:14 reminds us that “where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” Seeking advice from mature, godly Christians can provide clarity and confirmation of God’s will. They can offer biblical insight and personal experiences that help us discern God’s direction.

4. Examine Your Circumstances

God often speaks through our circumstances, opening and closing doors to guide us. While we should not base decisions solely on circumstances, being attentive to how God is working in our lives can help us understand His will (Revelation 3:7-8).

5. Listen to the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit resides in every believer, guiding us into all truth (John 16:13). Being sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s prompting, whether through a sense of peace, conviction, or leading, is crucial in discerning God’s will. Cultivating a habit of listening to the Spirit helps us stay in step with God.

6. Consider Your Desires

Psalm 37:4 says, “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” When we align our hearts with God’s, our desires often reflect His will. However, it’s essential to ensure that our desires are rooted in God’s Word and not influenced by selfish motives.

7. Test It Against Scripture

Any impression, thought, or advice we receive should be tested against the truth of Scripture. God’s will never contradicts His Word. If a decision aligns with biblical principles, it is likely in line with God’s will (1 John 4:1).

8. Look for Confirmation

God often confirms His will through multiple sources—Scripture, prayer, circumstances, and counsel. If you’re unsure about a decision, seek confirmation through these avenues. God’s will is usually consistent and affirmed through various means (2 Corinthians 13:1).

9. Practice Patience

Sometimes, God’s will is not immediately clear. In such cases, it’s essential to wait on the Lord. Isaiah 40:31 assures us that those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. Patience allows us to avoid impulsive decisions and trust in God’s timing.

10. Walk in Faith

Ultimately, discerning God’s will requires faith. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us that “without faith, it is impossible to please God.” Even when the path is unclear, walking in faith means trusting God’s character and His promises. As we step out in faith, God often reveals more of His will along the way.

Conclusion

Discovering God’s will is a journey that requires intentionality, prayer, and a deep relationship with Him.

While we may not always know every detail of God’s sovereign plan, we can confidently walk in His moral will, trusting that He will guide us step by step.

By studying Scripture, praying for guidance, seeking godly counsel, and listening to the Holy Spirit, we can identify God’s will and align our lives with His purpose.

Remember, God’s will is not just about making the right decisions but about living a life that glorifies Him in every aspect.

Embrace the journey, and trust that God is leading you according to His perfect will.

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