How can I know what God wants me to do?

Tribune Content Agency on Apr 9, 2018

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I'm facing a major career decision, but how can I know what God wants me to do? Maybe the devil will put wrong ideas into my mind, and I'll end up going down the wrong road. -- S.N.B.

A: Satan certainly will do everything he can to lead us astray. He is a master of deception; he may even try to persuade us that his voice is actually the voice of God. Sometimes, the Bible says, Satan "transforms himself into an angel of light" in order to deceive us (2 Corinthians 11:14, NKJV).

But the Bible also tells us that the closer we are to Christ, the less hold the devil has on us -- and the less we should be concerned about being led astray. Make sure of your commitment to Christ and His will for your life -- and then pray earnestly about your decision and ask God to guide you. When we sincerely want to do God's will, He can be trusted to guide us.

How will He do this? First, remember that God will never lead you to do anything that is contrary to what He has told us in the Bible. God also may guide you through circumstances -- a door that unexpectedly closes or opens, for example. In addition, seek counsel from wise and godly people you can trust. The Bible says, "In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:6).

As a footnote, make sure you aren't seeking something that is wrong or selfish, but that you'll be in a place that is good for your family, and you can live without compromising your integrity. I often think of Jeremiah's words of caution to his friend Baruch: "Should you then seek great things for yourself? Do not seek them" (Jeremiah 45:5).

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)