I’m reading through the Bible, and something that always stands out to me are all the stories in the Old Testament that show that God had a great plan—Joseph, Esther, David, Abraham, Moses, Isaac, Noah, and so many others. As we read, we see the whole story, and the trials, losses and tests all make sense in the story’s end.

I don’t think my life looks like any of those “Bible greats.” Yours probably doesn’t either. I don’t see a dramatic story in my life. But then again, I also have not been sold into slavery or married a king. Most of my life is basic and ordinary. I’m an ordinary wife and mom raising ordinary kids in an ordinary house with an ordinary income and no results that anyone would write home about.

Sometimes this has caused me to question if I am fulfilling my purpose in life. Am I in God’s will? Is this what He wants from me? Am I bearing the right fruit? How do I know I’m in His will when nothing I do seems to culminate in anything obviously great?

It’s been helpful for me to look at scriptures that talk about God’s will.

“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” (Romans 12:2).

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8).

“May the God of Peace … equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever” (Hebrews 13:20–21).

What jumps out to me from these verses is really great news!

  • It’s about my heart, not my accomplishments.
  • It’s not in my power; it’s about me letting God accomplish His will in my heart and life.
  • The rest follows out of a faithful heart.

Sometimes I need to refresh my perspective to align with what matters to God. I need to reset my heart to follow after Him. I hope this is helpful for you, too.