Discovering God’s Will: A Journey of Faith, Action, and Strength
Colossians 1:9-11 (NASB 1995)
One of the greatest questions we ask as believers is, “What is God’s will for my life?” The pursuit of God’s will is not just about making decisions; it’s about aligning our hearts with His divine purpose. Colossians 1:9-11 reminds us that discovering God’s will requires faith, action, and reliance on His strength.
God’s Will is Meant to be Known (Colossians 1:9)
Paul’s prayer for the Colossian believers was that they would be “filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding” (Colossians 1:9). God does not leave us in the dark when it comes to His will. While we may not always see the full picture, He desires for us to trust Him step by step.
Abraham left his homeland without knowing exactly where God would lead him. David was anointed as king long before he took the throne. Gideon, filled with doubt, still followed God’s call. And Rahab, despite her background, trusted the God of Israel, playing a crucial role in His plan (Joshua 2; Matthew 1:5-6). Each of these individuals stepped out in faith before fully understanding God’s greater purpose.
Many times, we overcomplicate the process of discerning God’s will, either by waiting for absolute certainty or by simply ignoring what He has already made clear. Yet, Ephesians 5:17 instructs us, “So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” The starting point is faith—believing that God’s will is good, trustworthy, and ultimately for His glory.
God’s Will Leads to Action (Colossians 1:10)
Knowing God’s will is not enough; we must respond. Paul exhorts the Colossians to “walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:10). Faith is never passive, it demands movement.
James 1:22 warns us, “But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not just hearers who deceive themselves.” God calls us to step forward, trusting that obedience brings clarity. Too often, we hesitate, wanting full understanding before we obey. However, Scripture teaches that understanding follows obedience. As we walk in faith, God reveals more of His plan to us.
Titus 2:14 reminds us that Christ “gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, eager for good deeds.” As a church, our purpose is clear: to live out our faith in ways that bear fruit for God’s kingdom.
What action is God calling you to take today?
Achieving God’s Will Requires God’s Strength (Colossians 1:11)
Walking in God’s will is not something we accomplish through sheer determination on our own. Paul prays that believers will be “strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all perseverance and patience” (Colossians 1:11). God does not ask us to fulfill His will in our own strength—He provides the power to do so.
Psalm 28:7 declares, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped.” When we rely on God’s strength, we experience transformation. His power enables us to persevere, to be steadfast, and to walk in His timing rather than our own.
Conclusion: A Step of Faith
Are you waiting to understand everything about God before trusting Him? Or are you willing to step out in faith, believing that He will guide your steps? Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
This week, take a moment to reflect: What step of faith is the Holy Spirit prompting you to take? Whether it’s trusting God with an unknown future, acting in obedience, or relying on His strength in a difficult season, let us commit to seeking His will with faith, action, and dependence on His mighty power.