God’s will is expressed in his word, for example in the Ten Commandments and elsewhere in Scripture. His ultimate goal is for us to reflect his glory, becoming transformed into his likeness. (2 Corinthians 3: 18) To this end, ‘Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others … for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.’ (Philippians 2: 4, 13)

As we read God’s word, we must allow it to influence our lives, daring to give up our own will to let God’s will be done. His will and ours will then work together. When in doubt about one of life’s choices, it may be helpful to make a list of arguments for and against a particular decision. Even better is to bring the matter to God, saying, ‘I want to choose your way. Please show it to me clearly, and if I have got it wrong, please stop me in such a way that I can be in no doubt about your will.’ God will seldom show you his complete plan for the rest of your life. He is more likely to reveal it gradually, step by step.

This was Abraham’s experience, as he was told first to leave his country and go to a land God would give him. The destination was not clarified until much later, but Abraham believed God, and went forward in faith. This may be what we have to do, too. When we pray, ‘Your will be done,’ we can trust God to reveal his will when we need to know it.