How can we know what God's will is for our life?
God loves us and wants us to know His will. Particularly for large decisions, it is important for us to always seek to hear God's speaking to us and to obey Him! He knows what is best and He loves us, so His will is best for our lives.
For large decisions particularly, we can look for 4 key areas to line up.
- God's Word. God will speak to us from His Word the Bible; He will not lead us in a way which is opposed to His Word. So if the thought comes to you "Rob a bank" and you know that is against God's Word, you can be confident that is not God's will.
- God's Spirit. God will speak to you in the quietness of your heart by His Holy Spirit. The peace of God which passes all understanding will keep and guard your heart and your mind. Take time to listen to God and ask Him to speak to you and give you His peace concerning direction.
- The counsel of others. God can speak to you through the advice and wisdom of godly men and women who know you. That doesn't mean that every voice you hear is of God, but you can pray for wisdom as you ask godly counsel. The Bible says "In a multitude of counsellors there is wisdom."
- Circumstances. God will often open one door, or close another. Again, that doesn't mean that every circumstance is of God, but God can use circumstances to show you His will. Once we tried to buy a house, only to have someone else immediately offer more money and purchase the house. Later, we found another house which was much better. So God can also lead through circumstances!
As you seek His face and His will, God will show you what to do!