How to know God’s will

Editor’s note: The article originally appeared in the Spring 2023 issue of Southwestern News.

Many people seeking God’s will fall into the trap of “paralysis by analysis” as they overthink things. No one wants to miss God’s will or choose the wrong thing. The result for some is that a decision is not made at all for fear of displeasing God. No doubt the Lord wants us to please and honor Him with our lives and decisions—but how can we know that a potential decision or action will accomplish just that?

The Word of God is a sufficient guide and a sure foundation, even if it does not provide specifics for specific situations. Looking to God’s Word, here are three truths to consider when seeking to know God’s will:

First, delight in the Lord.
Psalm 37:4 says, “Take delight in the LORD, and He will give you your heart’s desires.” Some read this verse and conclude that God will give us what we want if we delight in Him. But could it be that God will produce in us desires that please Him, if we find our pleasure first in Him?

A Godward delight reflects a trusting heart, regardless of our circumstances: “Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in everything”— and Paul declares—“for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thess 5:16-18).

Second, make God’s kingdom a priority.
Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.” God knows what we need and He will richly supply. Yet our focus should not be on “stuff,” but on serving Him and walking in His ways. Too often our attention is more on seeking God’s will than doing God’s will!

God’s will is to be found in the crucible of our sanctification (1 Thess 4:3), seeking God’s righteousness above our selfish desires. Perhaps our difficulty in knowing God’s will is truly a battle of desires (James 4:1)—wanting our own way rather than wanting God’s kingdom more.

Third, ask God for wisdom.
James 1:5 states, “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God—who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly—and it will be given to him.” God doesn’t want us to wrestle in uncertainty and doubt, so He promises to lavish wisdom on us if we ask Him for it. God graciously responds to those who ask, seek, and knock (Matt 7:7-12).

We should trust the Lord to guide us with wisdom, and we can rest in the truth that He is involved in the details in ways far greater than we can see.

Micah D. Carter is associate dean of Texas Baptist College and assistant professor of theology.