Knowing God's Will - Break Down the Barriers!

How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word. With my whole heart I have sought You; Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments! Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You. Psalm 119:9-11


God is always pleased to reveal His will to us. But at times, we cannot receive the message. Something in our life is creating a barrier to hearing Him.

Obstacles to the believer include: Self-will. Sometimes, we decide what we're going to do without God's input. We still talk to Him about our plan, even thinking it is so logical that the Lord must agree. But we have stopped listening for His will.

A second obstacle to Christians is: Influence. It's wise to seek godly counsel. But believers must be careful whom they allow to influence them. Many people will say what someone else wants to hear rather than what is actually needed.

A third barrier is: Sin. There are two ways it hinders our ability to know God's will. First, our spirit is clouded so we cannot determine His mind. Second, the Father may not reveal the next step in His plan because He's waiting for us to repent and become willing to obey.

A fourth obstacle for believers is: Distraction. One of the most subtle obstructions to knowing God's will is busyness. Our hands and our minds are so full we don't have the patience to wait and listen. The Lord does not chase after us, trying to force us to hear Him. "Be still, and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10) —is His simple solution for clearing the clutter of our overbooked lives.

The next time you seem unable to determine the Lord's will, try slowing down so that you can focus on Him. Then, consider whether you might have allowed one of these barriers to be constructed between you and God. Ask, and He will gladly help you to dismantle it.

Father, Thank You for Your word. Teach me to hide it in my heart, as You have commanded. Help me to make decisions based on Your will for my life, and help me to stay still long enough to hear what You are saying to me. Help me clear the clutter so that I can focus on my relationship with You! In Jesus Name~Amen