Self-will, in the context of biblical teaching, refers to the inclination of individuals to follow their own desires and inclinations rather than submitting to the will and commandments of God. This trait is often depicted in Scripture as a form of rebellion against divine authority and wisdom, leading to spiritual and moral consequences.

Biblical Examples of Self-Will:

1. Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:1-6): The first instance of self-will is seen in the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve chose to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, directly disobeying God's command. Their decision to follow their own desires rather than God's instruction led to the fall of humanity. "When the woman saw that the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eyes, and that it was desirable for obtaining wisdom, she took the fruit and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it" (Genesis 3:6).

2. The Israelites in the Wilderness (Numbers 14:1-4): The Israelites frequently exhibited self-will during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. Despite witnessing God's miracles, they often chose to grumble and rebel against His guidance. In Numbers 14, they refused to enter the land God promised them, opting instead to return to Egypt. "So they said to one another, 'Let us appoint a leader and return to Egypt'" (Numbers 14:4).

3. King Saul (1 Samuel 15:22-23): King Saul's self-will is evident when he disobeyed God's command to completely destroy the Amalekites and their possessions. Instead, Saul spared King Agag and the best of the livestock. Samuel rebuked him, saying, "For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance is like the wickedness of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king" (1 Samuel 15:23).

4. Jonah (Jonah 1:1-3): Jonah's initial refusal to go to Nineveh as God commanded is another example of self-will. Instead of obeying, Jonah attempted to flee to Tarshish. "But Jonah ran away from the LORD and headed for Tarshish" (Jonah 1:3).

Consequences of Self-Will:

The Bible consistently portrays self-will as leading to negative consequences, both spiritually and materially. It often results in separation from God, loss of divine favor, and various forms of judgment or discipline.

· Separation from God: Self-will creates a barrier between individuals and God, as it signifies a rejection of His authority and wisdom. Isaiah 59:2 states, "But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear" .

· Loss of Blessings: Those who choose their own path over God's often forfeit the blessings He has prepared for them. The Israelites' refusal to enter the Promised Land resulted in a 40-year journey in the wilderness, during which an entire generation perished (Numbers 14:28-35).

· Divine Discipline: God disciplines those who act in self-will as a means of correction and to bring them back to His ways. Hebrews 12:6 reminds us, "For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives" .

The Call to Surrender Self-Will:

Scripture calls believers to surrender their self-will and align themselves with God's will. This involves a conscious decision to trust in God's wisdom and guidance over personal desires.

· Submission to God: James 4:7 encourages believers to "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you" . Submission to God is portrayed as a pathway to spiritual victory and peace.

· Following Christ's Example: Jesus Christ exemplified perfect submission to the Father's will, even unto death. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He prayed, "Not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42). Believers are called to emulate this attitude of surrender.

· Renewal of the Mind: Romans 12:2 urges believers to "be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God" . This transformation involves aligning one's thoughts and actions with God's will.

In summary, self-will is a significant theme in the Bible, illustrating the tension between human desires and divine commandments. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and teachings that highlight the importance of surrendering self-will to walk faithfully in the ways of God.Nehemiah 9:17
And refused to obey, neither were mindful of your wonders that you did among them; but hardened their necks, and in their rebellion appointed a captain to return to their bondage: but you are a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and forsook them not.
Nave's Topical Index

Isaiah 42:24
Who gave Jacob for a spoil, and Israel to the robbers? did not the LORD, he against whom we have sinned? for they would not walk in his ways, neither were they obedient to his law.
Nave's Topical Index

Psalm 78:10
They kept not the covenant of God, and refused to walk in his law;
Nave's Topical Index

The Pilgrim's Progress
... or turn aside From His free grace, and holy ways, Whate'er ... gave heed, and perceived
that the hen did walk in a ... I what it is to mourn for my refusing of the ...
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