Missing God’s Will

Is it possible to miss the will of God for your life? I have spoken to many college students who are concerned that they might go to the wrong college, choose the wrong major, marry the wrong person and make many other wrong decisions regarding God's direction in their lives. Let me calm your nerves. Paul tells us to "offer our bodies as spiritual sacrifices" and "we will know the will of God for our lives" (Rom. 12:1-2). Seems simple, but let me take it a step further with some sure ways to not miss what God might be doing in your life.

It is unlikely that you will miss God's will in a big way when the following characteristics exist. First, if your will is wholly surrendered to God's will, you're safe. Second, when you are filled and controlled by the Holy Spirit, you're safe. Third, when you walk in the principles of God to the best of your ability and understanding, you're safe. Fourth, when you are reading the Bible for the details and doing your best to conform to it, you're safe. Fifth, when you are actively filling your mind with the things of God, you're safe. Sixth, when you are actively listening to God's voice in your life, you're safe. Seventh, when you take time waiting on God, you're safe. Eighth, when you are teachable and longing to hear the advice of spiritually mature counselors in your life, you're safe. Ninth, when you seek to remain humble and tender, you're safe. Tenth, when you are alert to God's providential circumstances and open to stepping out in faith to His guidance, you're safe.

God's will for you is large. Don't worry about missing it. If you focus on these characteristics and growing your relationship with the Father this summer, you are sure to walk out His purposes for you. On a side note, this does not mean that suffering, difficulty and heartache will be absent because many in the Bible promise that those who want to live fully for God in this world will have difficulty. The world and our enemy are doing their best to pull you off the God track. As Peter said at the end of this first letter to a persecuted church, "I am writing to you briefly, encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand fast in it" (1 Pet. 5:12). Go and do the same and the will of God will be a great adventure.