God’s will is mentioned countless times in Scripture as part of the dynamics between the Almighty and mankind. Some passages refer to a specific will in a specific situation, like Romans 12:1-2, where believers are urged to “be transformed” in their minds so they can “prove what the will of God is.” 1 Peter 2:15 calls believers to follow God’s will by “doing right,” which is usually more clear than we realize.
The Apostle Paul mentions God’s will several times in a more general way in His letters to the church at Thessalonica. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3, he says that ongoing, progressive sanctification is God’s plan for all believers. In a more specific believers should avoiding sexual immorality as a way of pursing God’s plan. In Thessalonians 5:16-23, Paul comments about God’s will in connection with three instructions at the head of a long list of instructions: rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in everything. These instructions are all ment to be continual and ongoing, making it a good example of God general will.
God’s general and specific wills can be visualized as a roadway. His general will forms the curb, shoulder, and/or guardrails that outline the edge of the road. These markers provide a broad outline of the direction to be traveled. God’s specific will can be compared to the lanes, signage, and traffic laws that direct the activity on that road. Drivers must apply their training and knowledge to that particular road to navigate it safely. They may make a mistake or an error in judgment, but that’s not how the road was designed.
God communicates His general will through the principles found in His Word, the Holy Bible. He communicates his specific will through Bible study, prayer, the Holy Spirit, and godly counsel. The combination of the two should allow us to live lives that glorify God.