As a pastor, one of the most frequent questions I encounter is, “How can I discern God’s will for my life?” Through years of guiding others and seeking God’s direction myself, I’ve developed a straightforward five-step process that has proven effective not only for me but for many others. Whether you’re seeking clarity about a decision or looking to deepen your daily walk with God, these steps can help illuminate your path.
Step One: Set a Date with God
The journey to understanding God’s will starts with intentional time set aside for Him. Just as you wouldn’t skip a meeting with a valued friend or mentor, time with God should be a non-negotiable fixture in your schedule. Whether it’s a morning devotion or a quiet evening reflection, find a time that suits you best when you can be fully present with the Lord.
Step Two: Be Still and Worship
“Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). In the rush and noise of everyday life, stillness before God allows us to surrender our agendas and listen. Start your time with God in worship—sing, pray, or simply sit in silence. Worship recalibrates our hearts and minds, aligning them with God’s heart and preparing us to receive His words.
Step Three: Dive into the Word
Scripture is our primary source of hearing from God. It’s where He has laid out His values, commands, and promises. Approach the Bible not just as a book, but as a living conversation with God. Read actively, asking the Holy Spirit to highlight truths and apply them to your life. Whether a few verses or entire chapters, let the scriptures speak into your circumstances.
Step Four: Listen and Journal
After reading the Bible, take time to listen. This can be one of the most challenging steps, as it requires quieting our own thoughts to hear God’s voice. Practice what I call “two-way journaling”: write out your prayers and thoughts to God, then pause and write down what you sense He might be saying to you. This practice isn’t about perfect clarity but about growing in the discipline of listening and recognizing His voice.
Step Five: Share and Act
Finally, share what you’ve heard with trusted spiritual advisors. Accountability is key in discerning and following through with God’s direction. Discuss your insights with those who know you well and can offer godly counsel. Then, step out in faith to act on what you believe God is calling you to do. Remember, faith without action is incomplete; our obedience is the proof of our trust in His divine guidance.
Conclusion
Discovering God’s will is not a one-time event but a continuous journey of relationship and obedience. By routinely engaging in these five steps, you’ll find yourself not only hearing from God but also walking more confidently in His ways. It’s a transformative process that deepens your faith and broadens your impact on the world around you. Remember, God is not trying to hide His will from you; He is eager to reveal it to those who seek Him with their whole heart.
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Faith Activist
Featured Image by Sixteen Miles Out on Unsplash
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