There are moments in life when we long deeply for something — a job, a relationship, a breakthrough, a child, a platform, or simply a change in our circumstances. In those moments, the most natural question we ask is: “How can I get this?” But perhaps the better question to ask is:
“Is this desire in alignment with the will of God for my life — and for this season?”
This simple shift in perspective can change everything.
Desire Isn’t Always the Problem
Desire, in itself, is not wrong. In fact, Scripture is filled with verses that acknowledge human longing:
“Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
— Psalm 37:4 (NIV)
However, the key is this: Desire must align with God’s purpose and timing.
Sometimes we desire something good — even godly — and yet we don’t receive it. Why? It might not be the right time, or we might not be in the right place spiritually or emotionally. Other times, our desire is misaligned with our purpose entirely.
The Will of God: What Is It?
The will of God can be understood in three main dimensions:
1. God’s Sovereign Will – This is God’s ultimate plan for the universe, unchangeable and unstoppable (e.g., creation, redemption through Christ).
“I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.”
— Job 42:2
2. God’s Moral Will – This refers to the principles and commands God has given us to live by (e.g., love, integrity, purity).
“Be holy, because I am holy.”
— 1 Peter 1:16
3. God’s Personal Will – This is God’s specific guidance for our individual lives — the right decisions, relationships, opportunities, and timing.
“Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left.”
— Isaiah 30:21 (NKJV)
Three Possibilities When We Desire Something
Let’s explore three different situations when we desire something:
1. You Desire a Thing + It Is in God’s Will + It Is God’s Time = He Will Give It
When your desire aligns with God’s purpose for your life and it’s the right season, you will receive it — often in ways beyond what you imagined.
“For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.”
— Psalm 84:11
2. You Desire a Thing + It Is in God’s Will + It’s NOT the Right Time = You May Wait
Waiting is not denial — it is preparation. God sometimes delays fulfillment to develop character, build faith, or align circumstances.
“He has made everything beautiful in its time.”
— Ecclesiastes 3:11
Think of Joseph, who had a dream from God but went through years of hardship before stepping into purpose (Genesis 37–41). Timing matters.
3. You Desire a Thing + It Is NOT in God’s Will = It Will Not Be Granted
Even if the thing seems good to you, if it is not God’s will or does not align with your purpose, it can lead to distraction or destruction.
“You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures.”
— James 4:3 (NASB)
In these moments, we must surrender our will to God’s higher wisdom and trust that He knows best.
What Should We Ask Instead?
Instead of asking, “Why haven’t I received this?” ask:
• Is this desire aligned with God’s purpose for me?
• Is this the season for this desire to be fulfilled?
• Am I walking in God’s will for my life right now?
The answer may lead you to surrender, alignment, and transformation.
Desire with Discernment
Desires can be beautiful indicators of what God may want to do in your life — but only when they are filtered through His will and surrendered to His timing. There is peace in knowing that God doesn’t withhold good things out of cruelty but out of purpose. He sees the full picture, and His plans are always for our good.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
— Jeremiah 29:11
So next time you find yourself longing for something, take a step back and ask:
“Is this in the will of God for my life in this season?”
If it is, trust that He will bring it to pass — in His time and in His way.
With Love, Esinam.
Virtuous Living 