When God’s Will Is Not Clear

Introduction

Every believer, sooner or later, faces a crucial question: “What is God’s will for my life?”   Often we have our own projects, dreams, and desires, and we ask God to bless them. But Scripture reminds us that true happiness does not come from convincing God to follow our plans, but from embracing His. His will is always greater, wiser, and better than our personal projects.

The Different Dimensions of God’s Will

The biblical tradition shows us that God’s will manifests in different ways:

• Sovereign will: God’s eternal and unchangeable plan for the universe, which no one can stop.

• Moral will: what God has revealed in His Word as guidance for our daily lives (to love, forgive, live in holiness).

• Permissive will: situations that God does not directly desire, but allows and still uses for His purposes.

• Personal will: the unique and unrepeatable plan God has prepared for each of us, “with our name written on it.”

Knowing God’s will does not mean having a detailed map of the future, but learning to know His heart and trusting Him step by step.

How God Guides Our Steps: Paul’s Example

The apostle Paul, perhaps the most guided by God in the New Testament, shows us that divine will does not always manifest in spectacular visions or supernatural signs. Often, God guides through ordinary circumstances. In his ministry, Paul experienced at least four ways of guidance:

1. Open Doors

In 1 Corinthians 16:7-9 Paul speaks of a “great door” that had been opened to him in Ephesus for effective work, despite opposition. An open door does not mean the absence of difficulties: in fact, opposition often confirms that we are in the center of God’s will. Divine opportunities are accompanied by challenges, but also by His presence.

2. Closed Doors

In Acts 16:6-7 we read that the Holy Spirit prevented Paul and Silas from preaching in Asia and Bithynia. Despite their good intentions, God closed the way. God’s “no” is not rejection, but protection. A loving father does not let his children harm themselves: in the same way, God closes doors to guide us toward better places.

3. Uncertain Plans

Paul himself admits he did not always have certainty about the future: “Perhaps I will stay with you… I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits” (1 Corinthians 16:5-7). Despite uncertainty, Paul was not anxious. He walked by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). God does not show us the entire map, but gives us enough light for the next step (Psalm 119:105).

4. Everyday Choices

Sometimes God leaves us the freedom to decide, as long as we remain within His moral will. Paul, for example, chose to spend the winter in Nicopolis (Titus 3:12) or to return to visit the churches (Acts 15:36). When we live in Christ, God treats us as mature children, capable of making responsible decisions. And even if we make mistakes, His grace turns everything into good (Romans 8:28).

What This Means for Us Today

• An open door does not guarantee an easy path, but the certainty that God is with us.

• A closed door is not failure, but an act of God’s love protecting us.

• Uncertain plans should not generate anxiety: God asks for trust, not control.

• Everyday choices are opportunities to glorify God, wherever we are.

God’s will is not a puzzle to solve, but a relationship to live. We do not need to know every detail of tomorrow: it is enough to know that the Good Shepherd guides our steps.

Conclusion and Invitation

If today you are facing a decision, or if you feel confused, remember this promise:

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” (Psalm 32:8)

The secret is not having all the answers, but trusting Jesus and taking the next step. Surrender to Him, let Him be the Lord of your life, and you will discover that His plans are always better than yours.