Practical Steps to Knowing God's Will

I once heard a guy say, "God's will is not a target to be hit but a journey to be traveled." This statement has a profound effect on many people's search for meaning in life. This thought along with a recent conversation led me to write about seeing God's will like an interstate highway. 

Sure, there are many paths we can travel, traveling at varying speeds, looking up at the signs, taking breaks along the way (see recent post). But often times we encounter situations in life where the unexpected outcome has caused us to question our decision-making skills or the closeness of our relationship with God. 

So, what are some practical steps for knowing God's will?

Read God's Word. 
You will not find God's will in People, Cosmopolitan, Home & Garden, or Muscle Fitness. Knowing God's will requires knowing God's heart and knowing God's heart requires reading God's Word. God's Word reveals His character; who He is. God's Word reveals His plan; what He does. God's Word reveals His kingdom; where He is. 

Hear God's voice.

We probably won't hear God speak through a burning bush or a stubborn donkey, but nevertheless, He is speaking through the abiding nature of His Spirit to our hearts. The real test of discernment is  disciplining ourselves to hear and respond to God's voice rather than the internal exploits of self and Satan. Knowing and doing God's will requires a humble obedience to these promptings of His Spirit. 

See God's work.

In those clueless moments to knowing God's plan we oftentimes shift our attention to some ideal that stems from our self-indulged imagination. Here's what we must remember; God is already at work in the world around us (Blackaby). He is using our circumstances and the people around us to affirm the work He is doing in our lives. Know this: God's will is always pointing toward His glory and our good.

So, today, if you're wondering about the will of God, begin reading His Word. While it may not seem clear, remember the promise that He's always there. He will not abandon you in the moment you are needing Him to be present. He's speaking, but we must learn the discipline of listening to His voice. There are also people making the same trek to know God's will that you are on so let them help affirm the work God is doing in your life.