The concept of right and wrong has been debated throughout history. Different cultures, philosophies, and legal systems offer varying definitions of morality. However, for believers in God’s Word, the ultimate standard of right and wrong is determined by the will of God.
The Bible teaches that God is the source of truth, righteousness, and justice. What is considered right or wrong is not based on human opinions but on God’s divine will. This topic explores how the will of God determines morality, why His commands matter, and how believers can align their lives with His righteousness.
1. What Is the Will of God?
1.1 The Definition of God’s Will
The will of God refers to His divine plan, purpose, and moral standards. It encompasses:
- God’s moral laws (what is right and wrong).
- His purpose for creation and humanity.
- His sovereign decisions over history and events.
The Bible provides clear guidance on what God considers righteous and sinful.
1.2 God as the Ultimate Standard of Morality
Since God is holy, perfect, and just, His will is the only true measure of morality. Unlike human laws, which change over time, God’s moral law is unchanging.
- Malachi 3:6 – ‘For I am the Lord, I change not.’
- Isaiah 5:20 – ‘Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil.’
This means that morality is absolute, not based on personal opinions or cultural trends.
2. How God Determines Right and Wrong
2.1 The Bible as God’s Moral Guide
The primary way we understand God’s will is through the Bible, which reveals His commands.
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – ‘All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.’
- Psalm 119:105 – ‘Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.’
God’s Word helps us distinguish right from wrong and live according to His righteousness.
2.2 God’s Moral Laws in the Old and New Testaments
Throughout Scripture, God gives moral laws to guide His people:
- The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) – A foundational moral code that includes prohibitions against murder, theft, lying, adultery, and idolatry.
- Jesus’ Teachings (Matthew 5-7) – Christ expands on God’s moral law, teaching that even thoughts and intentions matter in determining righteousness.
God’s will goes beyond external actions; it examines the heart and motives.
2.3 The Role of the Holy Spirit
For believers, the Holy Spirit helps them understand and follow God’s will.
- John 16:13 – ‘Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth.’
- Galatians 5:16 – ‘Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.’
The Holy Spirit convicts people of sin and empowers them to live righteously.
3. The Consequences of Ignoring God’s Will
3.1 The Danger of Moral Relativism
Many societies promote moral relativism, the idea that right and wrong are subjective. However, the Bible warns against this mindset.
- Judges 21:25 – ‘Every man did that which was right in his own eyes.’
- Proverbs 14:12 – ‘There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.’
When people reject God’s moral standard, they fall into sin and spiritual darkness.
3.2 The Consequences of Disobedience
Disregarding God’s will leads to both earthly and eternal consequences.
- Romans 6:23 – ‘For the wages of sin is death.’
- Galatians 6:7 – ‘Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.’
Sin not only separates people from God but also brings suffering, corruption, and destruction.
3.3 The Judgment of God
The Bible teaches that God will judge all people according to His righteousness.
- Ecclesiastes 12:14 – ‘For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.’
- 2 Corinthians 5:10 – ‘For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.’
Ignoring God’s moral law leads to divine judgment, while obeying Him leads to blessings and eternal life.
4. How to Align with God’s Will
4.1 Seek God Through Prayer and Scripture
To know God’s will, believers must seek Him daily through prayer and Bible study.
- James 1:5 – ‘If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God.’
- Psalm 143:10 – ‘Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God.
4.2 Live According to God’s Commands
Obedience to God’s commands brings spiritual growth and blessings.
- John 14:15 – ‘If ye love me, keep my commandments.’
- 1 John 2:17 – ‘And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.’
True faith is demonstrated through obedience and righteous living.
4.3 Rely on God’s Grace and Strength
No one can follow God’s will perfectly through human effort alone. Believers must rely on God’s grace and strength.
- Philippians 4:13 – ‘I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.’
- Titus 2:11-12 – ‘For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly.’
By walking with Christ, believers receive the power to live according to God’s will.
5. The Blessings of Following God’s Will
5.1 Spiritual Fulfillment and Peace
Following God’s will brings inner peace and fulfillment.
- Psalm 37:4 – ‘Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.’
- Isaiah 26:3 – ‘Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee.’
Living in obedience to God removes guilt, fear, and confusion.
5.2 Protection from Sin and Destruction
God’s laws protect people from spiritual and physical harm.
- Proverbs 3:5-6 – ‘Trust in the Lord with all thine heart… and he shall direct thy paths.’
- Psalm 1:1-2 – ‘Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly.’
Obeying God’s commands leads to wisdom, joy, and divine favor.
5.3 Eternal Life with God
The greatest blessing of following God’s will is eternal life.
- John 3:16 – ‘For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.’
- Matthew 7:21 – ‘Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father.’
Following God’s will ensures a future in His presence forever.
Live by God’s Will
The will of God determines right and wrong, not human opinions or changing cultural values. By following His commands, seeking His wisdom, and living in obedience, believers can experience true righteousness, peace, and eternal life.
Aligning with God’s will is the key to a blessed and fulfilling life.