Introduction
One of the greatest challenges in the Christian life is discerning God's will. We all want to make decisions that honor Him, but figuring out exactly what God is saying can sometimes be difficult. Whether it's deciding on a career path, moving to a new city, or considering ministry opportunities, understanding God’s will is essential to living a life of purpose. In this article, we will explore the ways God reveals His will—from general truths in Scripture to more specific guidance for personal decisions. We’ll also delve into how He speaks—through the Bible, inner impressions, wise counsel, and even dreams. Along the way, I'll share some of my personal experiences and provide practical steps to help you discern God's voice in your own life.
Before seeking God's specific will for our lives, it's important to understand the difference between His general and specific guidance.
General Guidance: God's general will is revealed clearly through Scripture. It encompasses His commands and teachings, which apply to all believers. For instance, we know from Scripture that God desires us to live righteously, love one another, and walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8). These are universal truths for all Christians. Romans 12:2 reminds us, "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." By following God’s general will, we position ourselves to receive His specific guidance more clearly.
Specific Guidance: God’s specific will, on the other hand, involves the unique plans He has for each of us. These plans may include decisions about career, marriage, ministry, or relocation. While the Bible may not give us direct answers about which job to take or where to live, it provides principles and wisdom to help guide us. Proverbs 3:6 tells us, "In all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight." This means we can trust God to guide us in these specific decisions as we seek Him.
Once we understand God’s general will, we can bring our specific questions to Him in prayer. The Bible encourages us to seek God’s wisdom for all aspects of life. James 1:5 says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." Whether you're facing decisions about your job, relationships, or ministry opportunities, it's important to ask God specific questions.
How God Answers: In my experience, God often answers in a variety of ways. Sometimes I receive what I call a "knowing" in my spirit. This can take two forms: either I suddenly know the right direction to take, or I am given knowledge I didn’t have before—sometimes about things I hadn’t even learned. These moments of knowing often arise after I’ve spent time in silence, positioning myself before God in prayer. It’s as though God drops the answer into my spirit, and I know that I’ve heard from Him, even without hearing an audible voice.
God's answers can also come gradually through His Word. I’ve often "stumbled" across the answer I need while reading Scripture. Sometimes, when I seek direction or clarity, a passage will stand out to me in a way that directly speaks to my situation.
When seeking God’s will, it’s important to test any impressions or "knowings" we receive to ensure they line up with His Word and His character. God’s voice will never contradict Scripture, and He often confirms His guidance through a sense of peace.
One way God confirms His guidance is through peace. In Colossians 3:15, we are reminded to "let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts." That peace acts as confirmation of God’s will, guiding us toward decisions that resonate with His purposes.
Example of Peace: One of the clearest moments when I felt God's peace was when I decided to leave Stanford and attend seminary. I had been feeling restless in my Ph.D. studies and was increasingly drawn to ministry. After conversations with friends and a fellow Stanford alum who encouraged me to use my intellectual gifts for God's glory, I felt the stirring grow stronger. I had completed enough of my studies to receive a Master's degree, and then, providentially, I was offered a full fellowship to Fuller Seminary. Even my nonreligious colleagues supported my decision, encouraging me to follow my heart. It was God's peace that confirmed the decision for me, and by following that peace, I eventually became the pastor and theologian I am today.
Wise Counsel: God also uses wise counsel from others to confirm His will. Proverbs 15:22 says, "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." Surrounding yourself with trusted friends and mentors who walk closely with God can provide clarity and confirmation in your decision-making process. In my own ministry, whenever I have made major moves, I have always discussed them with my mentors. Their approval has often served as a second level of confirmation that I was on the right track. Additionally, I always discuss major decisions with my wife so that we can come to a consensus. When my mentors and my wife are in agreement, I feel the confidence to proceed, knowing that God is guiding the decision from multiple angles.
Discerning God’s will is not always instantaneous. There are seasons of waiting, where God’s answers seem delayed or unclear. These periods can be challenging, but they are also opportunities for growth. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us that "those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength." Waiting on God teaches us patience and trust, helping us to rely on His timing rather than our own.
Faith During the Wait: In moments of waiting, I’ve found it helpful to reflect on God’s past faithfulness. When doubt creeps in, I remind myself of how God has come through in previous situations. This builds my faith and reassures me that His timing is always perfect.
Active Waiting: Waiting doesn’t mean doing nothing. It’s an active posture of trust, where we continue to pray, seek, and take small steps of faith. During one particular season of waiting, I kept a journal where I wrote down prayers, Scriptures, and impressions I believed were from God. Looking back at those entries later, I could see how God was guiding me, even when I didn’t fully understand at the time.
Learning to discern God’s will through prayer is a lifelong journey. It involves seeking His general guidance through Scripture, asking specific questions, discerning His voice, and trusting Him during seasons of waiting. As we develop these practices, we become more confident in hearing from God and more attuned to His direction for our lives.
Final Action Step: Commit to asking God specific questions in prayer this week. Spend time in silence, reading Scripture, and talking with trusted friends. Keep a journal of what you sense God is saying, and test it against Scripture and wise counsel. Whether you receive an answer immediately or must wait, trust that God is guiding you every step of the way.
Conclusion
Discerning God’s will is a process that requires patience, trust, and a deep reliance on His character and promises. By seeking His general guidance in Scripture, asking specific questions in prayer, and learning to discern His voice through impressions, peace, and wise counsel, we can walk confidently in His plan for our lives. Remember, waiting on God is not passive; it’s an active trust that positions us to receive His direction in His perfect timing. Continue to seek Him, and He will make your paths clear.
Blessings,
Dr. Wilfred Graves Jr.
wilfredgraves.org
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