WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO?
Have you ever struggled with a decision? You want to know God’s will for you, but you find yourself really unsure about what you should or shouldn’t do. A friend of mine shared a four-step process to discern God’s will that I found very helpful. It is as follows:
- Did God speak to you clearly about what to do?
If He speaks this way, act on it. (And try not to overthink it!) - Does God’s Word guide you in the decision?
Would acting in a certain way be contrary to God’s Word? Does God’s Word make it clear how you should proceed? (Hint: If it involves eating the last slice of pie your spouse had their eye on, maybe double-check this one.) - Is the counsel of wise friends completely consistent?
If so, remember, “With many advisers, one succeeds.” Just make sure your friends aren’t simply telling you what you want to hear. “Yes, you totally need that new motorcycle” might not be the wisdom you were hoping for. - What if you get conflicting counsel from wise advisors?
In such cases, there is often freedom to follow the desires of your heart. Unless, of course, your spouse disagrees. Have you ever felt like God was leading you one way, but your spouse confidently announces, “God didn’t bring me to that decision”? Suddenly, discerning God’s will feels like navigating a theological obstacle course with a referee.
In many circumstances, God gives us freedom within His will to make decisions. At other times, He makes it clear what we should or shouldn’t do. The most important thing we can do is spend time with God, making space to hear His voice. And maybe, just maybe, making space to hear your spouse’s voice too.
How This Can Strengthen Relationships, Especially with Your Spouse
- Improved Communication:
Discussing decisions together using these steps can foster deeper understanding. You both learn to listen not only to God’s guidance but also to each other’s perspectives. - Shared Values:
Using God’s Word as a guide helps align your decision-making process, ensuring your actions support your shared beliefs and principles. - Mutual Support:
Seeking counsel from wise friends together can affirm your trust in one another. Agreeing on advice strengthens your bond and reduces misunderstandings. Plus, it’s harder to blame each other when you both heard the same advice. - Freedom in Unity:
Recognizing where God allows freedom can help you honor each other’s preferences and desires. This step reduces tension over minor disagreements, like where to eat dinner, and affirms individuality within the marriage. - Time Together with God:
Spending time in prayer and reflection as a couple not only deepens your connection with God but also reinforces your partnership. Praying together strengthens intimacy and opens a safe space to express concerns
These steps, when applied thoughtfully can lead to stronger, more God-centered relationships while fostering peace and understanding in all areas of life. And remember, when God and your spouse agree, you’re probably on the right track!
