We have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, pleasing him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. Colossians 1:9

For me, it is a continual challenge to discern God’s will. How can I be sure I am doing God’s will and not just following my own desires? Sometimes, it is clear what God would have me do, but as I contemplate two trips I desire to take, I wonder if these are hopes God placed in my heart or are they merely something I want. First, I have wanted to visit the children we sponsor in Ethiopia. Secondly, I have longed to return to Israel since my first visit in 2010.

Although these desires are specific to my life, there are relevant questions to consider as any of us make decisions to pursue goals.

If it is God’s will, when is God’s timing? Psalm 27:14 tells us, “Wait for the Lord; be strong and let your heart take courage; yes, wait for the Lord.” Abraham, Moses, and David each waited years and years for God to bring His word to pass.

Am I going to wait until I hear a YES from God or proceed because I have not heard a NO? Some people may experience stronger emotional responses feeling sure about a decision. For me, if the Lord doesn’t seem to be closing doors, I think it is okay to proceed with some uncertainty trusting, as I take each step, He will shine more light on my path.

The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps. Proverbs 16:9

What is the difference between waiting on the Lord and passivity? Considering this question frequently confuses me. I know the Lord orchestrates every detail, but is there a step I am supposed to take? For now, I have a current passport and I occasionally put aside a little money.

Since I am a wife and mother, “we” and “our” supersedes “me” and “my.” During this season of my life, with many competing priorities, my desires may be eclipsed by what my husband and I want for our children. Again, I trust if it is God’s will, He will eventually bring the dream to fruition.

The more I ponder “What is God’s will?” the more I realize God does not desire to tell me what to do in every circumstance as much as He desires for me to seek Him continually.

  You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13

When we seek to understand God’s will, God may not give us a specific answer, but He will always draw us to Himself.  In the meantime,  I will continue to spend time in God’s presence, ask others to pray with me to discern God’s direction, and keep waiting.