Many seek specific directions for life’s choices: Which path should I choose? While the Bible offers wisdom for decisions, its core message emphasizes knowing and trusting God. The focus is less on receiving mystical directions and more on becoming the person God intends us to be.
The fundamental question shifts from how God guides to whom God guides. What characteristics define those who receive divine guidance?
1. Those Trained in God’s Ways
Psalm 25:4 states, “Make your ways known to me, Lord; teach me your paths.” This reflects an intimate understanding of God’s ways that shapes our actions.
The New Testament elaborates: “Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil” (Hebrews 5:13-14 NIV).
“Constant use” implies immersion in Scripture and skill in its application. Those “trained… to distinguish good from evil” possess an instinct for God’s will, even when Scripture isn’t explicit. Our “gut feeling” is reliable only when it’s informed by the Bible.
We must saturate ourselves in God’s ways, thinking according to scriptural patterns. Our obedience to God’s will is directly related to our knowledge of His Word.
Alt text: Open Bible illuminated by sunlight, symbolizing the importance of scripture in understanding God’s guidance.
2. Those Obedient to God’s Commands
“He leads the humble in what is right and teaches them his way. All the Lord’s ways show faithful love and truth to those who keep his covenant and decrees” (Psalm 25:9-10 CSB).
God promises guidance where Scripture doesn’t explicitly address situations to those already obedient in areas Scripture does address. Disobedience and prideful self-reliance sever us from God’s guidance.
Many ask, “God, what is your will in this decision?” A valid question, but it should be preceded by the honest self-reflection “Am I being obedient in all areas of my life?” God often redirects us to areas of disobedience requiring immediate attention.
Obedience can feel challenging, leading to apparent setbacks. When we feel God is directing us away from something we desire, like marriage, or when business integrity feels like a hindrance to advancement, the temptation to compromise arises.
The ultimate decision rests on who we trust with our future. Waiting on God means acting according to His principles, trusting Him to elevate us in His timing.
3. Those Who Trust in God’s Promises
“The secret counsel of the Lord is for those who fear him” (Psalm 25:14). “Secret counsel” suggests complete transparency from God. Tim Keller explains this as special moments of divine guidance through various means: church counsel (Acts 13:2), providential circumstances (Paul in Acts 16, 2 Corinthians), and inner promptings in prayer (Nehemiah). These are bestowed upon those who trust and walk with God.
When facing decisions, utilize all available wisdom: Scripture, reason, counsel, and the Holy Spirit’s leading. Make the wisest decision possible, even without a feeling of certainty. Trust is essential – trust that God guides as promised.
Alt text: A group engaged in prayer, emphasizing the role of communal support and faith in seeking God’s guidance.
4. Those Who Depend on God’s Grace
The worry that God holds grudges due to our sins can plague the pursuit of His will. This leads to a constant anticipation of negative consequences despite positive blessings.
The good news is that God’s guidance and blessings are based not on our worthiness, but on the worthiness of Jesus Christ.
David wrote, “All the Lord’s ways show faithful love and truth” (Psalm 25:10). Paul affirmed, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1).
There is no need to wait for punishment. It has already been borne by Jesus in our place.
Through the Gospel, we can confidently embrace a life of blessing. In Christ, we are blessed with every spiritual blessing (Ephesians 1:3). All God’s promises are “yes” in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20). Every good gift originates from the Father, who has no reservations or mixed feelings towards us (James 1:17). Goodness and mercy will follow us all our days (Psalm 23:6).
This is how to navigate life with assurance. Become the person God desires, trust Him, and watch your confidence grow.
