Sometimes we don’t know what to do, and we pray for discernment.
Other times, we pray for discernment, but it’s an excuse. We already know what to do, but we lack the courage to do it. That was the issue with my hero in One Plus One Equals Trouble. He had a decision to make, and he knew the answer, yet he kept praying about it.
God sends us out with his Holy Spirit as a guide. We don’t need to fear stepping off the path when we follow the Spirit’s voice. What is God’s will for me? We tear our hair out with that question. His will is simply this: that we glorify him and enjoy him forever (Westminster Catechism). The ways in which we glorify him and enjoy him are outlined for us in his Word. His Spirit brings alive that Word to us.
So should you take that job? Befriend that person? Enroll your children in private school? Move houses?
There is freedom to make those choices–as long as God is glorified in them. Don’t confine God’s will in ways it was never meant to be confined. He confines his will in the way of life he puts forth in his Word. Don’t add to it.
I’m not saying God doesn’t have a specific answer for the choices you bring before him. But if you’ve committed your way to him, take a step forward in the freedom He gives you. Don’t let an apparent lack of discernment paralyze you. Have courage. Take the step.
Where are you today, friend? If you know what you’re supposed to do, go out and do it with confidence.