How to Know the Will of God

Sermon OverviewScripture Passage: Acts 9:1-6Acts 9 tells the story of Saul’s conversion to becoming Paul. While on his way to persecute Christians, Saul came face-to-face with Jesus. And Saul’s first question to Jesus was:“Lord, what wilt thou have me to do” (Acts 9:6)?We are clever creatures who have lost our way and must relearn how we can know the will of God.First, remember that God has promised to guide.Psalm 32:8 says, "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye."God has a moral plan for each of our lives. God’s will is sovereign; it is always done. There is no changing the fixed standard of right and wrong He has established.Though God’s will is particular for each of us, there are six universal truths about His plan:It is not a roadmap; it is a relationship.It is not the end of our joy, but the beginning.God does not speak only to certain people; He has a plan for everyone.Learning God’s will is not always a dramatic experience; oftentimes, it is spoken softly.God is not finished with us, whether we’re 9 or 99.God does not hide His will from us. He wants us to know it even more than we do.God’s guidance hinges on our willingness, meekness, and openness.He is willing to guide when we yield to His control. Sometimes, God will give visions, miracles, or dreams to reveal His plans, but many times, He speaks practically. He guides through Scripture, His people, and the Holy Spirit within us. We must be sensitive enough to hear and know His voice.God also leads with sheer wisdom, through the renewing of our minds.God opens and closes doors, and guides the meek through it all. Many times, we don’t even know it was the providence of God until afterward.We don’t have to be afraid of the will of God. Adrian Rogers says, “The will of God will not take you where the power of God cannot keep you.”Apply it to your lifeAre you trying to find the will of God for your life? How much time are you spending alone with God? If we want to understand God’s particular will for our lives, we must begin to obey the Scriptures we understand.