In a previous blog post I mentioned a sermon (which I still can’t find) that God led me to some years back. I was trying to decide what to do with my life and what route to take. If you’re struggling with direction and need guidance here are some top tips you can use to help you move forward in faith and surrender.
6 Steps to Seeking God’s Will For Your Life
1. Not my will but God's will
If you really want God to lead you, you must be open to whatever He asks you to do and that starts with surrender. Your wants have to be put aside so you can see God’s will clearly. We often get confused thinking that if we surrender to God and choose to do whatever He says there we can’t actually choose something we like. God knows us better than we know ourselves surrendering your will to God doesn’t mean letting go of your preferences.
Then Jeremiah the prophet said to them, “I have heard. Indeed, I will pray to the Lord your God according to your words, and it shall be, that whatever the Lord answers you, I will declare it to you. I will keep nothing back from you.” - Jeremiah 42:4
Struggling to surrender? Try these 4 steps
First, pray that God will give you wisdom.
1. Write down all possible directions you can go in.
Pray for the things you have written
2. Write down the pros and cons of each choice
Pray for the list you have written once again
3. Choose the option that you like the least
Pray for a humble heart to surrender your will
4. Choose the option that makes the most sense
Why are there two choices? Without first choosing the option we like the least and letting go of control we are not ready to choose the option that makes sense.
Give it a go, it works for me every time. Don’t try to skip a step even if you know what is coming next. More importantly pray between each step.
2. Don't just trust your feelings
It’s safe to say human feelings cannot be trusted. Sometimes we feel hungry but we are actually just thirsty. Don’t let how you feel about a decision be the one indicator for your decision.
3. Read & Pray
If you want to hear from God you need to go where He is. Having a daily devotional and prayer life can often be underrated.
Take time to tell God everything, give Him the details. Have unfiltered conversation with God. Leave no stone unturned.
4. Be observant of your circumstances
“And He sent out two of His disciples and said to them, “Go into the city, and a man will meet you carrying a pitcher of water; follow him. Wherever he goes in, say to the master of the house, ‘The Teacher says, “Where is the guest room in which I may eat the Passover with My disciples?” ’ Then he will show you a large upper room, furnished and prepared; there make ready for us.” So His disciples went out, and came into the city, and found it just as He had said to them; and they prepared the Passover.” - Mark 14:13-16
Look around. What doors are open? What doors are closed? What windows of opportunity are in front of you?
Don't try to kick doors open or manipulate your mind into seeing false opportunity. Just like in life, if the door isn’t opening, understand that it might be locked, shut or shutting.
On the flip side there are times God sets things up for us. Take note and watch for His leading.
5. Talk to others about it
Not just anyone and everyone but Godly counsellors and friends who can help you to see things from another perspective or angle.
“Though the Lord gave you adversity for food and suffering for drink, he will still be with you to teach you. You will see your teacher with your own eyes.” - Isaiah 30:20
6. Make a decision & go in that direction
God has given us freewill and the power of choice for a reason. Life with God is like a car with power steering. God has given you the wheel and you ultimately have to choose how to drive it.
“The humble He guides in justice, And the humble He teaches His way.” - Psalm 25:9
Remember, finding purpose and direction is a journey, and it may involve twists and turns, detours, and unexpected opportunities. Embrace the adventure with faith and trust in a God who knows the desires of your heart and delights in revealing His will to those who seek Him with their whole hearts.
What ways does God speak to you the loudest? Let us know in the comments below.