God’s Will and Our Will Look Remarkably the Same

God’s will and our will look remarkably the same. God’s will is something that we seek. At the same time, it’s something that we can be terrified of. We’re terrified because when we give up our will we are giving up control. I bet I’m not alone in wanting to be in control. Just like the puppy tug of war picture above, we hold on tight instead of letting go.

My Fear of God’s Will as a Young Girl

Growing up my biggest fear was that God’s will meant having to be a missionary. At church we would have people come and speak to us that had become missionaries to the outermost places of the world. The image presented was that following God’s will would mean sacrificing everything to serve Him.

I was terrified of being a missionary. I had visions of having to give up everything and moving to a jungle type of place. When I was little I was deathly afraid of bugs. If there was a bug in my room I couldn’t go to sleep until I knew it was out or dead. Well, who am I kidding? I still don’t like bugs.

God’s Will Meant Having to Suffer

The other image of God’s will that was presented from the pulpit was that in this life we are meant to suffer. Heaven would be our reward and happiness. They left out the part when Jesus said things like, “I came that they may have life, and may have it abundantly.” John 10:10 And, “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” John 15:11

Jesus Describes God’s Will

There is a story in the book of Mark about a blind man who heard that Jesus was coming. He knew that Jesus could make him see. He went to where Jesus was and kept crying out to him. Others were trying to make him be quiet. Jesus heard his cries but stood still. He asked that the blind man be brought to him. Then Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” Matthew 20:32. The blind man said he wanted to see again, and Jesus granted his request.

This is a perfect example of our will being God’s will. Jesus asks the blind man what he wants. In a similar passage Jesus says, “Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for bread, will give a stone? Or if the child asks for a fish, will give a snake? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your father in heaven give good things to those who ask him!” Matthew 7:7-11

God Wants Us to Be Willing

God wants us to be willing. God’s will and our will can look remarkably the same. God gave us gifts and talents for a reason. It’s up to us to use them.

God’s will or God’s call can to be a wonderful mother or father. It can be being the best salesperson you can be with high integrity. It can mean being a personal trainer, doctor, musician, or teacher.

What it Feels Like to Not Be in God’s Will

What’s important is to pay attention and answer the call. It’s being in a spiritual flow. Here’s what it looks like when you’re not in the spiritual flow, when you’re not feeling like you are following God’s will. You will find yourself to be:

Anxious
Worried
Feeling constricted
Overwhelmed
Empty

What it Feels Like to Be in God’s Will

In the spiritual flow you will feel:

Peace
Expansive
Everything is in perfect order
Full

It’s really important to find time to be still each day. By being still you can listen to the still, small voice that is inside of you that helps you to discern God’s guidance in your life. If you need help being still, I’ve created a free mini course using four spiritual practices to Be Present with God.

When you are using your gifts and talents you will feel the spiritual flow and will of God. I use the word flow because God’s will is fluid. As the world and circumstances are constantly changing, God’s will will change.

I did have a real world, missionary experience when I took a life changing mission trip to Guatemala. We spent an entire week in the jungle building houses for three women and their children. Guess what? There wasn’t a single bug in sight. Is God good or what?