Choosing God’s Will Above Your Own Series

CHOOSING GOD’S WILL ABOVE YOUR OWN

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 22:42

Supporting Texts: Proverbs 3:5-6, Romans 12:1-2, Isaiah 55:8-9, Matthew 26:36-46, John 6:38

INTRODUCTION:

Choosing God’s will above our own is one of the most difficult yet most important decisions a believer must make daily. In a world that celebrates self-determination and personal ambition, surrendering to God’s plan often seems countercultural. However, true fulfilment is found not in following our preferences but in aligning with the divine purpose.

Jesus Christ, our perfect example, chose the Father’s will even when it meant pain, suffering, and the cross. His submission in the Garden of Gethsemane teaches us that yielding to God is not always easy, but it always leads to glory. The will of God may not always align with our desires, but it always aligns with His eternal purpose.

When we learn to submit our will to God's, we begin to walk in true obedience, experience divine direction, and fulfil our God-ordained destiny. Let us now explore what it means to choose God’s will and how to do so in every area of life.

1. UNDERSTANDING GOD’S WILL IS FOUNDATIONAL

Before we can choose God's will, we must understand what it is and why it matters.

a) Romans 12:2 – Be Transformed to Discern God's Will

You cannot recognise God's will while conforming to the world; transformation through the Word is key.

b) Ephesians 5:17 – Do Not Be Foolish, But Understand the Lord’s Will

God expects us to actively seek and understand His plans for our lives.

c) Psalm 119:105 – God’s Word Guides Us into His Will

The Bible is the lamp that reveals the path of God’s purpose.

d) Proverbs 3:5–6 – Trust in the Lord and He Will Direct Your Paths

We discover His will by trusting Him above our own understanding.

Biblical Example: Paul, formerly Saul, surrendered to God's will on the road to Damascus and was transformed from a persecutor to a preacher (Acts 9:1–6).

2. CHOOSING GOD’S WILL REQUIRES SURRENDER

You cannot walk in God’s will without dying to your own desires and control.

a) Luke 22:42 – Not My Will, But Yours Be Done

Jesus' prayer shows the heart of full surrender to the Father’s plan.

b) John 6:38 – Jesus Came to Do the Will of the Father

The life of Christ was fully centred around fulfilling God's assignment.

c) Galatians 2:20 – Crucified with Christ, Yet Living Through Him

Surrender involves dying to self so Christ can live through us.

d) Matthew 16:24 – Deny Yourself and Take Up Your Cross

Following God’s will demands sacrifice and daily self-denial.

Biblical Example: Abraham obeyed God by offering Isaac, submitting completely to God’s will, even when it tested his heart (Genesis 22:1–18).

3. GOD’S WILL MAY CONTRADICT HUMAN REASONING

Often, what God requires does not make logical sense but carries eternal significance.

a) Isaiah 55:8–9 – God’s Ways and Thoughts Are Higher

We must acknowledge that divine logic surpasses human reasoning.

b) 1 Corinthians 1:27 – God Chooses the Foolish Things to Confound the Wise

Obeying God may look foolish to men but powerful in His eyes.

c) Genesis 6:14–22 – Noah Built an Ark Without Rain

Sometimes God’s will seems irrational, but obedience brings deliverance.

d) Exodus 14:13–16 – Moses Stretched His Rod Over the Sea

God’s instructions may defy logic but lead to miraculous breakthroughs.

Biblical Example: Peter obeyed Jesus and cast the net where he had toiled in vain all night, and it led to abundance (Luke 5:4–6).

4. WALKING IN GOD’S WILL BRINGS DIVINE BACKING AND REWARD

When you choose God's will, you walk under divine favour and protection.

a) Deuteronomy 28:1–2 – Obedience to God Brings Blessings

Choosing God's way opens the door to His supernatural blessings.

b) Psalm 23:1–3 – He Leads in Paths of Righteousness

God does not lead where He will not sustain and provide.

c) Romans 8:28 – All Things Work Together for Good

Even in trials, God’s will ultimately works for your benefit.

d) Hebrews 10:36 – You Need Endurance to Receive the Promise

Sticking to God’s will pays off with fulfilment of His promises.

Biblical Example: Joseph remained in God’s will through betrayal and prison, and he rose to power as God had destined (Genesis 50:20).

CONCLUSION:

Choosing God’s will above our own is the ultimate test of trust and maturity in the life of a believer. While our flesh may resist, our spirit knows that the safest, most rewarding path is always the one God leads. True discipleship is measured not just by what we believe, but by our willingness to submit every decision, dream, and desire to the Lord.

As we journey with God, we will face crossroads that challenge our loyalty to His will. But like Jesus in Gethsemane, our victory comes when we declare, “Not my will, but Yours be done.” The will of God may cost you, but it will never cheat you. Surrender brings victory.