What does "know His will" in Acts 22:14 mean for believers today? The Setting in Acts 22:14 • Paul recounts his Damascus-road calling. • Ananias tells him, “appointed you to know His will” (Acts 22:14). • The statement is literal: God consciously chose Paul for a purpose that includes clarity on divine intent. What “Know His Will” Signifies • Personal revelation: God discloses His plans, not vague guesses. • Moral alignment: To “know” means embrace and live what God desires (cf. “do not be foolish, but understand the Lord’s will,” Ephesians 5:17). • Missional clarity: Knowledge is given so service can be targeted (Paul was to “be a witness,” Acts 22:15). Biblical Threads on Knowing God’s Will • Renewal of mind unveils it—“be transformed… then you will discern God’s will” (Romans 12:2). • Spiritual filling brings it—“we have not stopped praying… that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will” (Colossians 1:9). • Obedience sharpens it—“If anyone desires to do His will, he will know” (John 7:17). • Scripture anchors it—“Your word is a lamp to my feet” (Psalm 119:105). Truths for Believers Today • Appointment still stands: every believer is chosen to know and display God’s purposes. • The will of God is not elusive; the Spirit makes it accessible (1 Corinthians 2:12). • Knowing is inseparable from doing; revelation always expects response (James 1:22). • Clarity grows in community—teaching, fellowship, and counsel confirm direction (Proverbs 15:22). Practical Pathways to Know His Will 1. Saturate your mind with Scripture—daily intake tunes the heart to God’s voice. 2. Pray for illumination—ask specifically to be “filled with the knowledge of His will” (Colossians 1:9). 3. Yield to the Spirit—prompt obedience opens fresh understanding (Galatians 5:25). 4. Evaluate circumstances through biblical lenses—Providence often aligns events with revealed principles. 5. Seek godly counsel—mature believers help discern authenticity. 6. Commit to the church’s mission—service settings frequently clarify individual callings. Everyday Encouragement • God delights to guide; His will is a gift, not a riddle. • The same Lord who appointed Paul appoints you to walk confidently in revealed truth. • Stay in the Word, stay in step with the Spirit, and you will “know His will” and make it known to others. |