Thursday, December 12, 2024

Four Steps for Discerning God’s Will

Finding God’s will is essential for every believer, yet many struggle with how to approach it. The answer lies in balancing Scripture and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Here are four steps to help you confidently follow God’s direction.

Decide to Obey Before Having All the Answers

God reveals His plan to those who are fully committed to following it, no matter what. Before seeking His will, determine in your heart to obey. This involves trusting God’s wisdom and surrendering your preferences. He does not reveal His guidance for debate or negotiation but for action. “If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” (John 7:17)

Let Scripture Be Your Daily Guide

The Bible is God’s primary tool for guiding us. It addresses nearly every area of life, from relationships and parenting to finances and friendships. Its teachings provide clarity for decisions both large and small.

In biblical times, the “lamp” mentioned in Psalm 119 referred to an ankle lamp that illuminated just enough for the next step. This imagery reminds us that God often reveals His will incrementally, requiring us to walk by faith day by day. Trust that as you follow His Word, He will guide each step. “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:105)

Seek Advice from Godly Counselors

Seeking guidance from spiritually mature believers is an important part of decision-making. Choose advisors who are firmly grounded in Scripture and who seek God’s will themselves. Their wisdom can help you approach decisions with clarity and discernment.

However, don’t seek advice merely to confirm your own opinions. True counsel comes from those who will point you toward God’s truth, even if it’s uncomfortable to hear. “Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.” (Proverbs 15:22) “For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors there is safety.” (Proverbs 24:6)

Let God’s Peace Confirm Your Direction

God uses peace as an inner confirmation when we follow His will. However, this step should come after the others. Peace alone is not sufficient if it contradicts Scripture or godly advice. Ensure that your commitment, consistency in Scripture, and wise counsel are in place before trusting an inner sense of peace.

The word “rule” in Colossians 3:15 means to act as an umpire. God’s peace can serve as a decisive factor when making choices, providing assurance that you are aligned with His will. “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” (Colossians 3:15)

Putting It All Together

To discern God’s will, you must actively follow these steps:

Decide in advance to obey Him.

Rely on His Word for clarity in daily decisions.

Seek godly advice from spiritual leaders.

Allow His peace to confirm your choices after following these principles.

As Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

From the editors at IndependentBaptist.com

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