Every person finds themselves in a place where they are praying to know what to do. Is it God's will for me to make this decision. How do I go about finding out?
There are some clear cut things in the Bible that tell us God's will- abstain from fornication, don't kill, etc. But what about the questions that aren't spelled out- who do I marry, or should I take this job?
Here is list of what to do to find out. It's kind of like a pro and con list that you can use to help you. Never forget to pray and ask for God's guidance! This is just to help you along the way, and hopefully point out some things that you didn't think of.
1) Is it for God's glory?
Colossians 3:17- And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Our job on this earth is to bring glory to God. Our lives are to tell others about Christ and Him crucified. Will this decision help you do this, or hinder you?
2) Can you do it with a clear conscience or do you have doubts?
Romans 14:23- And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
If you're in a turmoil over this, then it isn't God's will. God gives peace when we do his will. It doesn't mean you won't be scared, but it does mean that you won't be out of your mind worrying if this is right to do!
3) Can you ask God's blessing on it?
1 Corinthians 6:15- Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid.
If you can't bow your head and ask God to bless what you're about to do, you should probably run in the opposite direction!
4) Would you mind if Christ found you doing it when He returns?
1 John 2:28- And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.
Christ is coming back one day. Would you really want Him to show up and catch you with this person, or in this position, or doing this action?
5) Is it a good example for others?
Romans 14:7,13- For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.
Some one is always watching you. Would you want your younger siblings to copy you? How would you feel if your children were doing what you are thinking of doing?
6) Am I motivated by self interest or Christ's interests?
Philippians 1:21- For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
The question about whether this would benefit you or Christ is kind of the same as the first- does it glorify God? Sometimes we can benefit from what glorifies God, but our personal benefit shouldn't be the reason we do anything!
7) Will it harm my body or cut my service to Christ short?
1 Corinthians 6:19-20- What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
2 Corinthians 7:1- Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
If it's something that is gonna cause you physical harm, or inhibit your ability to serve Christ, then it more than likely isn't something that God wants from you.
I hope that these simple questions help you to find clarity and God's direction for your life. Just remember that our main purpose is to serve and glorify the Lord Jesus Christ, and anything that would stop you from accomplishing this is not in God's will!
The devil doesn't always tempt with sin, sometimes he distracts us with duties, hinders us with obligations, or allures us with something good to keep us from service to our Lord. The devil will always offer his best before God will show you His will for your life.
