“Please pray I’ll know God’s will.”
“Pray my child won’t miss God’s will.”
“Pray for clear direction.”
Whether we’re choosing paint colors, a career path, or a spouse, we’ve all felt the pressure: What if I get this wrong?
We want God’s “good, acceptable, and perfect will” (Rom. 12:2). But in our desire to get it right, we can begin to feel anxious—like God’s will is something fragile we might accidentally miss.
When I feel that way, I remind myself of this truth: God wants His will for me even more than I do. He’s not hiding it or playing games with me.
What Matters More Than the Plan
While studying Abraham’s life, I came across this quote:
“Who I am becoming is much more important than what I am doing.” — Henry David Thoreau
Clear, measurable goals can make us feel productive—even faithful. But I’ve found my goals don’t always match God’s plans.
God is more concerned with what He is doing in me than what I’m achieving.
His goal? To teach me to trust Him.
“And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for the one who comes to God must believe that He exists, and that He proves to be One who rewards those who seek Him” (Heb. 11:6 NASB).
Why God Doesn’t Show the Whole Plan
God gave Abraham spectacular promises—but not the details. Not the timing. Not the “how.”
That didn’t come until decades later.
Scripture says God’s Word is “a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Ps. 119:105 NIV). A lamp doesn’t light the whole road—just the next step or two. The rest stays in the dark until we move forward.
If God laid out every detail, I’d trust the plan instead of Him, because sight removes the need for faith.
That’s why I’ve learned to write, “If the Lord wills” over my plans. Even good plans are poor substitutes for walking closely with Jesus.
Who Is Shaping Your Desires?
Jim Rohn said we are the average of the five people we spend the most time with. So here’s a question worth asking: Is Jesus one of your five?
The more we include Him in our thoughts, the more our desires begin to reflect His (Ps. 37:4). And when our desires change, so do our goals.
When You Can’t See the Outcome
Abraham struggled when he couldn’t see how God’s promise would unfold (Gen. 15:2–3). But each time, God redirected his focus—away from the problem and back to Himself. And when Abraham looked up, his faith rose again (Gen. 15:5–6).
I’ve lived that same pattern. Sometimes God’s direction has been clear—like when He called us to leave California for further education. But the next steps didn’t become visible until it was time to take them.
When I begin to feel anxious, I know I need to focus more on Him. When I do, peace returns. I’ve learned He supplies the grace I need when I need it, but not usually before.
Focus on Your Guide, Not Just Your Goal
God’s call to Abraham reminds me to be more focused on my Guide than my goal. Jesus knows how to lead you. He knows how to fulfill His plans for you.
As we walk closely with Him, He promises, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go” (Ps. 32:8 NASB).
You and I don’t have to figure it all out. We just take the next step in the light He’s given.
Instead of fearing you’ll miss God’s will, take the next step in trusting Him. He’s leading you—one step at a time. #Faith #TrustGod #GodsWill #WalkByFaith Share on XBlessings,
Part of this was adapted from Little Faith, Big God.
Sometimes I link to these great sites:
#MondayLinkUp #InstaEncouragements, #Let’sHaveCoffee, #Grace&Truth, #SweetTea&Friends
This is awesome! We want to see the whole plan laid out and that is not how God works! And for good reason. Years ago I heard Joyce Meyr say when she was worrying about missing God’s plan, He told her – don’t worry – if you miss it I will get you back on the path. We think we have to do it all perfectly but He’s the only perfect one and He is more than able to get us to where we need to be!
I love the verse in Rom. 8 that says the children of God are led by the Spirit of God. And of course, James 1, He gives wisdom to those who ask in faith.
I love this Debbie!
It reminds me of a book by Stormie O’Martian called “Just Enough Light for the Step I’m On.”
I especially like your observation that if we know everything we don’t need faith! And faith is so important to Jesus.
Thanks, Kim. Don’t we prefer sight to faith? I’m still learning to exercise that faith muscle.
I really enjoyed your message Debbie. I know I have felt that way at times. I’m so thankful that God factors in my mistakes like missing out on what He planned for me. Thanks Debbie.
What peace we gain when we focus on His ability to guide us instead of my ability to hear Him!
This post is very timely. Often we are focused on getting to our goal, which often can even be a good thing. But is it always what God would desire for us? That is the question. Much wisdom in your words – focus on the Guide not the goal. He will never lead us astray.
That’s so much more peaceful, isn’t it?
Debbie, such good thoughts here. I can get too caught up in overthinking “God’s will” and end up getting lost in my head. I love the quote by Thoreau, for me that is the most important thing!
Thanks, Donna, I like that one too. Changes how I look at what I do.