Understanding How We Live Out God’s Will Every Day
By Laudiaann Sylvest — August 11, 2025
I’ve often heard people ask, “If God is good, why would He let His children suffer?” Some even wonder if going through hardship is part of His will. The truth I’ve learned from Scripture is that while God doesn’t take pleasure in our pain, He can use our trials to shape our character, deepen our faith, and draw us closer to Him. When we endure hardship for His sake, it can actually become a powerful way to show our obedience and love.
Suffering in the Light of God’s Will
Jesus said, “If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me” (Luke 9:23). That cross is not only about physical suffering—it’s about laying down our own will, letting go of pride, and choosing obedience even when it’s uncomfortable.
The Apostle Paul understood this well when he wrote, “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him” (Philippians 1:29). When I face challenges for standing on truth, walking in love, and living in righteousness, I’m reminded that I’m sharing in Christ’s sufferings—and also in His mission and His glory.
How I Live Out God’s Will Each Day
I’ve come to understand that God’s will isn’t only about those “big” life-changing moments—it’s also about the everyday choices that keep my heart in line with His. I’m walking in His will when I:
- Choose love over bitterness — Forgiving those who hurt me, even when it stings, because God has forgiven me.
- Serve others selflessly — Whether it’s caring for someone in need, lending a helping hand, or giving generously.
- Stand for truth — Speaking honestly, even if it costs me something.
- Pray without ceasing — Staying connected to Him in everything I do.
- Stay faithful in trials — Trusting Him even when the storm rages.
Suffering as a Witness
I’ve seen how one of the strongest witnesses to others is not how well I do in the good seasons, but how faithful I remain in the hard ones. People might forget your success, but they remember your steadfastness. Just as Jesus’ suffering brought salvation, my prayer is that my endurance in trials will point others to the hope they can find in Him.
A Daily Walk in His Will
Walking in God’s will is not always exciting or glamorous—it’s often quiet, consistent faithfulness. Whether I’m in a season of joy or sorrow, plenty or little, my calling is the same: trust Him, obey Him, and love others. In that obedience—even in the midst of suffering—I believe I’m living out my God-given purpose and carrying out His will.
