As believers, understanding God’s will is a profound journey that requires discernment and a solid foundation in biblical wisdom. Let’s explore the distinctions between God’s decretive will, preceptive will, and permissive will, and discover five practical ways to discern His guidance in our lives.
God’s Decretive Will
God’s decretive will refers to His sovereign, unchangeable plan for all of creation. It encompasses His eternal purposes, often beyond our comprehension. Biblical reference: Isaiah 46:10 – “I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’”
God’s Preceptive Will
God’s preceptive will is revealed through His commands and moral guidelines in Scripture. It guides us in righteous living and reflects His character. Biblical reference: Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
God’s Permissive Will
God’s permissive will allows for human choice within the boundaries of His moral order. While He may permit certain actions, they might not align with His ideal plan. Biblical reference: Acts 14:16 – “In the past, [God] let all nations go their own way.”
Five Ways to Discern God’s Will
1. Prayer and Seeking Guidance: Communicate regularly with God, seeking His guidance through prayer and meditation.
2. Studying Scripture: Delve into the Word of God to understand His precepts and principles.
3. Wise Counsel: Seek advice from mature believers who align with biblical truths.
4. Inner Conviction: Pay attention to the Holy Spirit’s prompting and inner conviction.
5. Circumstantial Confirmation: Look for alignment with God’s principles in the circumstances of your life.
Encouragement to Live a Holy Life
Living a holy life involves aligning our choices with God’s preceptive will, striving for righteousness, and continuously seeking His guidance. Hebrews 12:14 reminds us, “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness, no one will see the Lord.”
In our pursuit of God’s will, let us navigate the intricate balance between His decretive, preceptive, and permissive will. Through prayer, Scripture, counsel, conviction, and discernment of circumstances, we can confidently align our lives with the divine path. May the encouragement to live a holy life resonate in our hearts, guiding us toward a deeper relationship with our sovereign and loving Creator.
