We tend to gauge whether or not we are in God’s will on how smoothly things are going in our lives. As soon as things become challenging and difficult or when things are not going our way we start to question, “Did I miss God’s will? Am I going in the right direction?” However, ease and comfort do not equate to being in God’s will. Rather, the indicator is being at peace even when you are going through the difficulties.

Nehemiah knew that God had directed him to rebuild the walls. Because of this confidence he was able to be strong and of good courage even when the opposition and oppression came. So must we!!

1 Corinthians 16:9 says “For a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.”

Opportunity always comes with opposition and oppression. So don’t use these to determine that you are not in God’s will. When we are about our Father’s business the enemy will start to send his fiery darts our way. That is why the Lord says on many occasions to His people, “Be strong and courageous.”

If our heart is set to do God’s will then even when we start to go in the wrong direction he will put us back on the right path. The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord (Ps. 37:23).

When we trust the Lord and acknowledge Him in all our ways He will direct our paths (Prov. 3:5-6).

God watches over His Word to perform it. He exalts His Word above His name. The only way to line up our decisions with God’s will is to immerse ourselves in God’s Word. The Scriptures hold the key to His will. Romans 12:2 tells us “And be not conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind that you may prove what is that good, and acceptable and perfect will of God.”

“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord and in His law he meditates day and night.” (Psa. 1:1-2)

So, no matter how you take it, knowing God’s Word and lining up your life with His Word is the only way to determine whether or not you are in God’s will. The great thing is that as you get into God’s Word you get to know God. And knowing God has its benefits.

“……………………but the people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits.” (Daniel 11:32b)

The Word says “many are the afflictions of the righteous but the Lord delivers him out of them all” (Psa. 34:19, emphasis mine).  Who is going through the afflictions? Yes, the righteous. So, going through difficult times and facing challenges does not mean you are not in the will of the Father. It just means that He is allowing you to be strengthened so He can trust you more and more to be used for fulfilling His purposes.

“But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” (Heb. 5:14)

Know that the kingdom of heaven suffers violence but the violent take it back by force. This is to be our stance in the face of the enemy’s opposition to what we know God has called us to do. We must be people who will not allow ourselves to be intimidated by the enemy but will stand boldly for the things of God and press on towards the mark of the high calling of God resisting the enemy every step of the way.

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armour of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” (Eph. 6:10-11)

Stay strong!!

Shalom