“Fools rush in impulsively while the wise weigh the will of God.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – January 24, 2025
Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Ephesians 5:17
Why is it important to know God’s will for our life? Understanding God’s will is vital as it directs our decisions and ensures we remain in line with His purpose. Ephesians 5:17 says, “Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” When we live without seeking divine direction, we risk acting foolishly, making choices driven by emotions, culture, or selfish desires. Fools rush in impulsively while the wise weigh the will of God. Our heavenly Father’s will is good, perfect, and designed for our flourishing. Even in difficult seasons, the Holy Spirit brings clarity, peace, and purpose. Discerning and following His will lead us toward lives that honor Him, bless others, and reflect His love in a world searching for meaning.
What is God’s will? It’s important to distinguish between the perfect and permissive will of God. The perfect will of God is His ultimate, flawless plan for our lives. It’s where God desires us to be—living in complete obedience, walking in His purpose, and receiving His best. Think of it like following a perfectly drawn map. Romans 12:2 says, “God’s will is good, pleasing, and perfect.” On the other hand, the permissive will of God is what He allows, even though it’s not His best for us. Sometimes, we make choices outside of His ideal plan, and while God allows it, there may be consequences. He doesn’t abandon us, but He uses those moments to teach and refine us (Romans 8:28). The goal is to seek His perfect will—trusting that His plans are always better than anything we could design for ourselves. Oswald Chambers helps us clarify the two:
God’s perfect will is unchangeable. It is with His permissive will, or the various things that He allows into our lives that we must wrestle before Him. It is our reaction to these things allowed by His permissive will that enables us to come to the point of seeing His perfect will for us. “We know that all things work together for good to those who love God…” (Romans 8:28)— to those who remain true to God’s perfect will— His calling in Christ Jesus. God’s permissive will is the testing He uses to reveal His true sons and daughters.
Things we know are, God’s will is for those who look on Jesus Christ and believe in Him to have eternal life, John 6:40. It’s always the Lord’s heart for you to give thanks in all circumstances, 1 Thessalonians 5:18. And it’s the will of God to avoid sexual immorality, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5. Peter reminds us in 1 Peter 2:15 that God’s will is doing good deeds to silence ignorant fools. Other commands like loving the Lord and others, the beatitudes, and the Ten Commandments are clear directives on ways to live our calling and purpose in life. His perfect will is clear, but not always easy to live. This is why the Holy Spirit is our enabling power to obey God’s perfect will.
How do you discern God’s permissive will? Discerning the Lord’s permissive will involves recognizing the choices He allows, even if not His perfect plan. Begin by seeking Him through prayer and Scripture, asking for wisdom (James 1:5). Reflect on your decisions—do they align with biblical principles, or do personal desires drive them? Pay attention to the Holy Spirit’s conviction and inner peace (or lack thereof). God’s permissive will often allows you the freedom to choose, but it may come with consequences that teach and refine you. Evaluate circumstances, seek godly counsel, and ask if your choice glorifies God. While He allows free will, His perfect will is always your highest and best pursuit. Pray, “Thy will be done, not my will be done.”
Prayer
Lord, help me know Your will and give me the strength to follow it. Align my heart with Yours, and guide my steps to honor You in all I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Application
What has the Lord already made clear in Scripture that you need to do? And what is unclear and so you need to wait on the Holy Spirit to help you discern His best?
Related Reading
Psalm 40:8; Proverbs 3:5-6; Micah 6:8; Romans 12:2; Colossians 1:9
Worship Resource
Jessie Harris: The More I Seek You
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