How to Know If Something Is God’s Will (A 9-Question Checklist)

Ever been stuck trying to figure out if something is really God’s will, just your own desire, or the voice of someone else creeping in?

Yeah—me too. All the time.

Whether you’re praying about a new job, a move, a relationship, or some big life decision, it can feel overwhelming when God goes quiet or the answers aren’t clear. But here's the good news:

👉 God actually wants you to know His will.
👉 And He gives you everything you need to discern it.

That’s why I created a simple 9-question checklist that I personally use every time I’m faced with a major decision—and I want to share it with you.

🎯 Before You Read: Download the Free 9-Question Discernment Checklist

Use it while you read or keep it for the next time you need clarity.
📥 Download it free here.

💡 What Does the Bible Say About Knowing God’s Will?

Romans 12:2 tells us:

“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.”

So let’s clear this up:
God’s will isn’t confusing.
It’s good. Acceptable. And perfect.
And with a spiritually renewed mind and the help of the Holy Spirit, you can know it!

Below are the 9 questions, but I encourage you to watch the full video above for a rich breakdown.

✅ The 9 Questions That Help Me Discern God’s Will

Let’s walk through the nine questions I use—every single time I’m praying through a big decision.

1. Does it align with God’s Word?

If it contradicts God's Word, it’s not God's will. Period.
God will never tell you to do something that goes against His already-revealed truth. His Word is the foundation for evertyhing. If it doesn't pass this test, do not pass go!

2. Does it reflect God’s character?

If it doesn’t look like Jesus,sound like Jesus, and lead to Jesus, it’s not His will.
Think love, joy, peace, patience, kindness…
Check out Galatians 5:22–25 and Exodus 34:6–7 for a picture of God’s heart.

3. Do wise Christians affirm it?

Don’t ask just anyone.
Find people who are rooted in Biblical truth (if they don't know God's Word, don't ask 'em.
Find Christians who are discerning, and actually live the life you want in God.
If they say “this might not be it,” listen.

4. Will the long-term fruit glorify God?

Jesus said we’ll know things by their fruit.
Ask: Does this lead to more Christlikeness, deeper holiness, and lasting impact for the Kingdom?
If not, I wouldn't want any part in it.

5. Can I live without it?

This one’s a Holy Spirit heart-check.
If God said “no,” would you pursue it anyway?
If God didn't give it to you, would that be okay?
If not, it may be an idol to submit—not an invitation to pursue.

6. Do I feel peace or adrenaline?

Adrenaline often signals danger, impulse, or fear—not the Holy Spirit.
God’s direction always leads to peace, even when the step feels bold or out of your comfort zone

7. Is this for God’s glory—or my gain?

Be honest.
Are you doing this to make His name great… or your own?
We all wrestle with mixed motives—this question cuts through them.

8. Have I asked God what He thinks?

Simple, but we skip it.
Have you actually asked Him?
Sometimes silence means wait. Other times it’s His way of growing your trust.

9. Can I faithfully test this step out with God?

Romans 12:2 says we test His will.
Sometimes the next right thing is to try—and invite God to confirm, redirect, or close the door.

🙏 What If God Is Still Silent?

That’s okay.
Silence is not absence.
Sometimes God’s teaching us how to walk in faith. Sometimes He’s watching how we practice discernment—because it’s through practice that we grow.

If you’ve walked through the checklist above and still don’t have a clear answer, pray this:

“God, I think this honors You. I’ll take a step—and trust You to lead, correct, or redirect me as I go.”

🎁 Want the Checklist? I Got You.

👉 Download the free 9-Question Discernment Guide here.
It’s perfect to keep on your phone, print, or stick in your Bible.
(And yes—it’s totally free. You can pay what you want to support the ministry.)

👣 Next Step: Grow Your Spiritual Muscle!

Want to take your walk deeper?

✅ Take the Spiritual Growth Assessment and take your first step by uncovering where you're thriving and where you have opportunity to grow in the Lord.

Stay bold. Stay anchored. Walk in faith.