How to Discern God’s Will for Your Life: A Christian Mother’s Journey of Faith and Trust
Have you ever found yourself at a crossroads, not knowing which way to turn? Maybe you’ve felt that silent pull in your heart, a whisper that makes you pause and wonder, Is this what God wants me to do? I’ve been there too—standing in my kitchen with a cup of coffee in hand, staring out the window as if God’s will was going to appear in the clouds. But understanding God’s will isn’t always straightforward. It often feels like piecing together a puzzle, especially when life’s demands are pressing in from every direction.
As a single mother of two beautiful daughters, I’ve had my share of doubts and uncertainties. Raising my girls alone wasn’t part of the plan, and there were countless times I questioned God’s direction for my life. I remember nights spent praying until the early hours of the morning, seeking clarity and guidance. But you know what? I discovered that God’s will isn’t a secret He’s hiding from us—it’s a beautiful plan that He gently reveals as we walk in faith.
Step 1: Start with Prayer and Surrender
One thing I learned early on is that discerning God’s will begins with surrendering our own. I used to pray, “Lord, show me Your will,” but I realized I was more interested in Him aligning with my plans rather than being open to His. True discernment starts with a heart that says, Lord, not my will, but Yours be done.
There’s a beautiful peace that comes with releasing control. When I began praying with an open heart, my prayers changed from desperate pleas to conversations with a loving Father who knew exactly where He was leading me—even when I couldn’t see it. I encourage you to start each day with a simple prayer: Lord, I am open to Your will. Guide my thoughts, my actions, and my decisions today.
Step 2: Seek Wisdom Through God’s Word
One of the most powerful ways to understand God’s will is through His Word. I can’t count the number of times a single verse has spoken directly to my situation. When I was struggling with whether or not to take a new job that would keep me away from my daughters more often, I stumbled across Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
That verse became a lifeline. It reminded me that God’s wisdom surpasses my own, and His direction is always for my good—even when it doesn’t seem to make sense. When you’re seeking God’s will, spend time in Scripture. Ask Him to reveal His truth through His Word, and trust that the answers will come.
Step 3: Listen for the Holy Spirit’s Guidance
Have you ever felt that gentle nudge in your spirit, almost like an inner prompting? That’s the Holy Spirit guiding you. When my daughters were younger, I had a strong urge to move them to a different school. It wasn’t logical at the time, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that it was what we needed to do. As it turned out, the move provided them with a much healthier environment and lifelong friendships that still bless them today.
God’s voice often comes as a quiet whisper, so it’s important to quiet our minds and listen. Pay attention to those small stirrings in your heart and the peace that comes with certain decisions. Sometimes God’s will is felt more than heard.
Step 4: Consider Your Circumstances
Our circumstances can also point to God’s will. Sometimes, God opens or closes doors to steer us in the right direction. When I was deciding whether to start a new career path later in life, several opportunities seemed to dry up all at once. At first, I felt frustrated, wondering why God wasn’t making a way. But then, a new door opened—one I hadn’t even considered—and it led to a season of incredible growth and joy.
If you’re facing closed doors, don’t get discouraged. Instead, ask God what He might be saying through your circumstances. It could be His way of redirecting you to something even better.
Step 5: Seek Godly Counsel
It’s easy to get lost in our own thoughts, especially when emotions are high. I’ve found that seeking advice from mature Christians can be incredibly helpful. There’s wisdom in the counsel of others. When I was navigating a particularly difficult season, a dear friend reminded me of this verse: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22)
Talking things through with someone who shares your faith and values can provide clarity and insight that you might not see on your own. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for prayer and advice.
Step 6: Trust God’s Timing
Lastly, remember that God’s timing is perfect. I know how hard it can be to wait—I’ve spent many seasons wondering why God’s will wasn’t unfolding faster. But I’ve come to understand that delays aren’t denials. God’s timing often refines our character and prepares us for what’s ahead.
Looking back, I see how each season of waiting brought me closer to Him and strengthened my trust. If you’re in a waiting season, hold on. God is working behind the scenes, and in His time, He will make everything beautiful.
Finding God’s Will Is a Journey, Not a Destination
Discerning God’s will isn’t about having a detailed map of your life; it’s about trusting Him step by step. If you’re struggling to understand what God wants for your life, know that you’re not alone. Take it from this single mom who’s walked through plenty of uncertainties—God’s will is not a mystery to be solved but a relationship to be nurtured.
As you seek His guidance, I encourage you to let go of the need for all the answers and embrace the beauty of walking with Him, one step at a time. You’re not expected to have it all figured out—just to have faith in the One who does.
If this message spoke to your heart, please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. And if you’re trusting God to reveal His will for your life, type “I trust You, Lord!” to declare your faith today. 💖
Remember, my dear friend, God’s plan for you is good, and He is faithful to lead you every step of the way. ✨
