God's will refers primarily to two aspects: God's sovereign will and God's command or moral will. God's sovereign will means God's sovereign control over all things that happen in the universe, including events that unfold according to His divine plan, whether good or involving human sin. This will is always accomplished and cannot be defied. On the other hand, God's command will refers to what God requires people to do morally and spiritually—his commands and desires for how humans ought to live. This will can be obeyed or disobeyed by individuals. Scripture shows that God's will includes sanctification, holiness, doing good, giving thanks, and spiritual growth, among other commands. Understanding God's will often means discerning and obeying His revealed commands in the Bible, living in alignment with His moral purposes, and trusting in His sovereign plan even in difficult circumstances.
God's Sovereign Will
- God's sovereign will is His all-encompassing divine plan and control over what happens in the world.
- It includes events like the death of Jesus on the cross, which fulfilled God's predetermined plan.
- It also encompasses human actions and events that come to pass, even if they involve sin, as part of God's overarching decree.
- This will is always fulfilled and cannot be altered by human actions.
God's Moral or Command Will
- God's moral will involves His commandments and instructions for how people should live, such as holiness, sanctification, and gratitude.
- Unlike the sovereign will, this can be obeyed or ignored by individuals.
- It is revealed through scripture and guides believers in daily living and spiritual growth.
- Understanding this will requires discernment, spiritual renewal, and obedience.
In summary, God's will is both His sovereign unfolding plan that governs everything and His prescribed moral instructions for humans to follow for a life aligned with His purposes.
