What We Often Misunderstand About Discovering God’s Will

One of the first questions many Christians ask after coming to faith is this: What is God’s will for my life? We wonder if there’s a specific job we’re supposed to take, a particular city we’re meant to live in, or one person we’re destined to marry. We want clarity, certainty a roadmap from heaven detailing every step ahead.

But what if the way we approach God’s will is actually part of the problem?

In his book Just Do Something, pastor and author Kevin DeYoung argues that God’s will isn’t a riddle to solve it’s a way of life to embrace. “Does God have a secret will of direction that He expects us to figure out before we do anything?” he asks. “The answer is no.”

Let’s unpack three common myths about God’s will and what Scripture really says instead.

1. God’s Will Isn’t Always the Hardest Path

Many Christians assume that if something feels difficult, uncomfortable, or unenjoyable, it must be God’s will. We associate holiness with hardship, as if God is always trying to teach us through the thing we least want to do.

But DeYoung pushes back on this thinking. “The most important decision we face is the daily decision to live for Christ and die to self,” he says. And within that call, we’re given remarkable freedom. “So go marry someone, provided you’re equally yoked. Go get a job, provided it’s not wicked. Go live somewhere…”

The point isn’t to choose misery it’s to pursue obedience. God's will doesn't mean delaying every decision until a divine telegram arrives. It means honoring Him with your life, your choices, and your motives.

Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” That word “testing” implies movement you learn God's will not by waiting passively, but by walking wisely.

2. God’s Will Isn’t a Hidden Surprise

We love dramatic stories of burning bushes and thunderous voices from heaven. But more often than not, God’s will unfolds in ordinary faithfulness not extraordinary events.

DeYoung draws a helpful distinction. “Trusting in God’s will of decree is good. Following His will of desire is obedient. Waiting for His will of direction is a mess.”

In other words, there’s no need to stress about missing some hidden divine plan. God has already revealed much of His will in His Word. It includes loving others (John 13:34), living with integrity (Micah 6:8), forgiving enemies (Matthew 6:14–15), and pursuing holiness (1 Thessalonians 4:3).

“God’s will is your growth in Christlikeness,” DeYoung writes. “God’s will for your life is not very complicated.”

If we’re faithful in the clear things, we can move forward in the unclear ones with confidence. God is not playing hide-and-seek. He’s already speaking through Scripture, through His Spirit, and through the people He places around us.

3. God’s Will Isn’t a Battle Between You and Him

Some believers view God’s will and personal desire as opposing forces. We assume that what we want must be at odds with what God wants and that surrender means abandoning all joy.

But that’s not how God works.

The more we walk with Him, the more our hearts begin to align with His. Our desires are reshaped by His Spirit. Psalm 37:4 says, “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” That doesn’t mean He rubber-stamps every whim it means He plants desires that match His purposes.

DeYoung challenges the common mindset: “The decision to be in God’s will is not the choice between Memphis or Fargo, engineering or art. It’s the daily decision we face to seek God’s kingdom or ours.”

The real question isn’t What should I do with my life? but Who am I becoming as I live it?

When your will is surrendered to His, your steps will naturally begin to align with His path even if the exact route remains unseen.

Already in the Will of God

When Jesus called His disciples, He didn’t hand them a five-year plan. He simply said, “Follow Me.” That call hasn’t changed. You don’t need a divine GPS to find God’s will. You need a surrendered heart that’s willing to trust His lead one step at a time.

“Live for God. Obey the Scriptures. Think of others before yourself. Be holy. Love Jesus,” DeYoung writes. “And as you do these things, do whatever else you like, with whomever you like, wherever you like, and you’ll be walking in the will of God.”

God’s will isn’t about micromanaging your future it’s about forming your character. And once your heart is aligned with His, you’ll find that you’re already walking in the right direction.

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