“Do not be conformed 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.” Romans 12:2

I am often asked, “How can I know what God’s will is for my life?”

While this is a huge question, it is one which the scriptures address.

It seems clear that it is God’s good pleasure to reveal His will, His purpose for our life.

He does not desire our life to be a hidden mystery, which is only discovered in hindsight.

Paul writing to the people in Colossae said, “I have become a servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness- the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the saints.

To them God has chosen to make known the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. (Colossians 1.25-27)

If there is a mystery, it seems that in Christ that mystery begins to be unveiled.

Paul goes on to say later in the letter, “your life is now hidden in Christ.”(Col. 3.3)

If indeed it is hidden in Christ, then in Christ it is revealed.

The mystery of life is completely wrapped up in Jesus, and the unveiling of that mystery pivots on the real discovery of who Jesus is.

This discovery is knowing Jesus, not just knowing about Him.

Knowing Him to be all that He says He is launches us into a journey of discerning His will for our life.

What does this look like?

For me as a husband, father, friend and a pastor, it looks like the daily routine of serving.

Both on the home front and in the community, it should reflect the patience, kindness and forbearance of Christ.

When it does not, then I know I am out of His will.

If I am to believe all that the scriptures say, and I do, then it means, “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” (Romans 12.14-18)’

Oh, yea, my attitude gets a little weary, but if my life is hidden in Christ, then in Him, in His ways, I will find His will for my life.

When I take over and seek my own will instead of His, then ‘Christ in me’ calls forth confession, true repentance, and then receiving absolution from ‘the Father’.

It is the prodigal coming home and receiving the loving embrace of the only one who can give it.

If you truly want to know His will then look first to Him, ‘fix your eyes on Jesus, He is the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.

Hidden In Him,

Robert