How can I know if the decision I’m about to make is truly God’s will?

QUESTION:

I deeply desire to study medicine, but I’m unsure whether this is God’s will for me. These doubts keep me from making a clear decision. What should I do to know what field of study God has purposed for my life?

ANSWER:

Your question touches on one of the most important aspects of the Christian walk—discerning the will of God. It’s a question many believers ask, whether about marriage, career, ministry, or life direction.

Many people expect God to reveal His will through dreams, visions, audible voices, or prophetic words. While God may sometimes use these ways (Joel 2:28; Acts 2:17), they are not the primary means He has chosen to guide His people. The Word of God and the leading of the Holy Spirit remain the clearest and most trustworthy sources for understanding His will.

1. God is a Counselor, not a Dictator

Isaiah 9:6 describes Jesus as the “Wonderful Counselor”, not a dictator or commander of personal choices. He guides us with wisdom, not compulsion. God created us with the ability to think, choose, and desire. He doesn’t override our will; instead, He shapes it through counsel, conviction, and the renewal of our minds (Romans 12:2).

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Romans 12:2, ESV

God’s desire is not just to tell us what to do, but to transform our thinking so we can wisely choose according to His will.

2. How Does God Counsel Us? Through His Word

God has already given us His foundational guidance through Scripture. The Bible is not just a religious book—it is the very counsel of God. It corrects, teaches, rebukes, and trains us in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16–17).

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

Psalm 119:105, ESV

When you desire to make a major life decision, such as choosing a career path, start by:

Praying sincerely and regularly over the matter (Philippians 4:6–7)

Comparing your desire with biblical principles

Checking for any conflicts with your faith or God’s commands

For example, if you’re drawn to a business involving things clearly condemned in Scripture (e.g., alcohol sales, pornography, dishonest profit), then regardless of the appeal or profit, God’s Word gives a firm “no.” Our desires must always be filtered through truth (Psalm 1:1–3).

3. God’s Will Is Not Always Mystical—Sometimes It’s Moral and Missional

There are two dimensions of God’s will in Scripture:

God’s moral will – revealed in the Bible (e.g., sexual purity, honesty, loving others, avoiding evil).

God’s sovereign or specific will – details about life that are not explicitly found in Scripture (e.g., where to study, whom to marry, which career to pursue).

As long as your decision does not violate God’s moral will, and you’re walking in fellowship with Him, then you are free to choose within that boundary. God gives us wisdom to decide.

The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.

Proverbs 16:9, ESV

So if, after prayer and reflection, you find no biblical reason against studying medicine, and it’s something you’re passionate about, and it would glorify God, then you can confidently pursue it, trusting that He is guiding your steps.

4. Peace Is a Confirmation, Not a Replacement for Scripture

Colossians 3:15 says:

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

If your decision brings a sense of lasting peace, and that peace aligns with Scripture, then it’s often a sign that God is leading you. However, peace should never contradict God’s Word. We must not confuse emotional comfort with divine approval—always let Scripture be your highest authority.

5. God Doesn’t Play Games with Our Destiny

God is not a trickster who hides His will from sincere seekers. If you truly desire to honor Him, He will ensure you’re not misled.

Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.

Proverbs 16:3, ESV

Even if the decision you make turns out not to be God’s perfect will, as long as you invited Him in from the beginning, He can redirect your path (Proverbs 3:5–6). He is sovereign over every step and can use even our detours for His glory (Romans 8:28).

So what should you do?

1. Pray deeply and consistently about your decision. If possible, fast and spend focused time in God’s presence. Show Him that you’re serious about seeking His will (James 1:5).

2. Study the Word. Make sure your desire does not conflict with Scripture.

3. Seek godly counsel. Mature believers can help confirm what God may be saying.

4. Observe your heart. Is there peace? Joy? Clarity? Or fear and confusion? (1 Corinthians 14:33)

5. Step out in faith. If everything aligns, move forward with confidence.

And don’t wait for a dream, vision, or an angelic visitation. Those are rare and not essential. God’s Word and the inner witness of the Holy Spirit are sufficient.

Final Encouragement:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Proverbs 3:5–6, ESV

As long as you walk in humility, seeking God first and obeying His Word, He will faithfully guide you. Choosing to study medicine can be a wonderful and God-honoring path, especially if your motive is to serve others and glorify Christ.

God bless you richly as you pursue His purpose for your life.

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