Discerning God's Will

3-28-2011 by Boyd Bailey

Discerning God’s Will


“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2

God’s will is the goal of every sincere seeker of the Lord. His will is not allusive, but attainable to His children—it is good and acceptable. But discernment is a process of testing and approving—so that a Christian’s faith and character grows—and Christ’s best is clarified. Discerning God’s will is a spiritual exercise in divine due diligence.

God’s will does not contradict God’s word. For instance, the Lord does not lead couples to live together outside of marriage. Men and women are meant to come together in marriage. It is the commitment of “becoming one” that God blesses. Indeed, the general principles for living are already outlined in the Bible—to know Him is to know His will.

“I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better” (Ephesians 1:17).

What about career decisions? How do you know God’s will for your work? If you are single you have the freedom and risk tolerance to travel the world. If you are married it is a joint decision for Jesus. His will resides in righteous motives. Don’t be afraid to leave and don’t feel guilty for staying—just make sure His peace precedes your decision-making.

Christ’s best for you consist of wise stewardship, the alignment of your passions, gifts and experiences, and your investment in others. You can be certain Jesus wants to use you to draw people unto Himself—and family is your first priority for ministry. So, don’t run ahead and leave them exposed to the enemy. Patience produces right relational results.

“Being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience” (Colossians 1:11).
God does not delight in keeping His children in the dark, so pray often and pray believing. It is in prayer that the Holy Sprit reveals His ways. Clarity may come in the form of a scripture verse, another person’s example or godly counsel. The flesh presses for a decision, but the Spirit leads. You can trust the Lord to lead you in His providential path.

His will is not forced, contrived or manipulated. It’s not a complex Rubik’s cube; instead it aligns around your God-given unique purpose on the planet. Why did He create you? What gives Him the most pleasure? Place your life, skills, gifts, experiences and calling in the best environment to glorify God. Peace accompanies the discernment of God’s will.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).

Am I waiting on the peace of God, as I am prayerfully determining the will of God?

Related Readings: Isaiah 53:10; Acts 21:14; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; James 4:15