Understanding the Will of God

Ephesians 5:17

Scripture: Ephesians 5:17 – “Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.”

Introduction

Beloved in Christ, there are few things in the Christian life more significant than understanding the will of God. It is a question that resonates deeply in our hearts: What is God’s will for my life?

We desire clarity in our decisions, direction in our journey, and confirmation that we are living according to God’s purposes. Today, we will explore what Scripture teaches us about God’s will, how we can recognize it, and how we are called to respond to it.

1. What Is the Will of God?

The will of God can be understood in three ways: His sovereign will, His moral will, and His personal will.

God’s Sovereign Will

This refers to God’s ultimate plan for the universe. It is the will that cannot be thwarted or altered. For instance, the coming of Jesus Christ into the world to save sinners was part of God’s sovereign will (Ephesians 1:11). Even when human plans or actions oppose Him, God’s sovereign will always prevails.

God’s Moral Will

God’s moral will is revealed in Scripture and includes His commands and teachings for how we are to live. For example, 1 Thessalonians 4:3 says, “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality.” Living a life of holiness, integrity, and love is part of God’s moral will.

God’s Personal Will

This refers to God’s specific guidance in individual decisions. Whether it’s choosing a career, a spouse, or making other life-altering choices, we often seek God’s personal will. While this is important, it should never overshadow our focus on His moral will as revealed in Scripture.

2. How Can We Discern God’s Will?

Discerning God’s will requires both spiritual discipline and a heart aligned with Him. Here are four key steps:

A. Seek God in His Word

God’s Word is the foundation for understanding His will. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” The Bible is God’s revealed will and provides clear guidance for how we should live.

B. Pray for Guidance

James 1:5 promises, “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.” Prayer is essential in seeking God’s will. It’s not just about asking for answers but also about surrendering our hearts to His purposes.

C. Listen to the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is our Counselor and Guide. Romans 8:14 says, “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.” The Spirit prompts us, convicts us, and leads us toward decisions that glorify God.

D. Seek Godly Counsel

Proverbs 15:22 says, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.” Surround yourself with mature Christians who can offer wisdom and insight rooted in God’s Word.

3. Living in God’s Will

Once we understand God’s will, we are called to live it out in obedience and trust. Here are three attitudes to cultivate:

A. Trust in God’s Sovereignty

Even when we don’t understand God’s plan, we can trust that He is in control. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Trusting in God’s sovereignty gives us peace in uncertainty.

B. Walk in Obedience

Obedience to God’s revealed will—His Word—is essential. Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15). Obedience often requires sacrifice, but it brings blessings and aligns us with God’s purposes.

C. Surrender Your Plans

Living in God’s will means surrendering our own desires and ambitions. Jesus modeled this in the Garden of Gethsemane when He prayed, “Not my will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). True surrender allows God to work through us in ways we cannot imagine.

4. What Happens When We Don’t Understand?

There will be times when God’s will seems unclear or difficult to accept. In those moments, we must hold onto faith and remember that God’s ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). Trusting Him doesn’t mean we will always have immediate answers, but it does mean we can rely on His character, promises, and timing.

Conclusion

Understanding the will of God is not about receiving a roadmap for every detail of life; it is about deepening our relationship with Him and walking in faith, obedience, and trust. When we focus on His sovereign plan, obey His moral will, and seek His personal guidance, we can live confidently, knowing we are fulfilling His purpose.

Let us close with this promise from Proverbs 3:5-6:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

May we surrender our lives to God, seek Him with all our hearts, and trust that His will is perfect.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing Your will to us through Your Word and Spirit. Teach us to trust You, to seek Your guidance, and to walk in obedience. Give us the wisdom to discern Your plans and the courage to follow them. May our lives bring glory to Your name as we live in Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.