How can one discern between personal desire and God's will?

Discerning between personal desires and God’s will can be challenging, but the Bible provides guidance on how to approach this:

• Surrender Your Desires to God: Start by submitting your desires to God and asking Him to align your heart with His will. Psalm 37:4 NKJV says, "Delight yourself also in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart." This suggests that when our delight is in God, our desires will begin to align with His.
• Examine Motives: Reflect on your motives behind the desire. James 4:3 NKJV warns, "You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures." Ensure that your desires are not rooted in selfishness but are in harmony with God’s purposes.
• Seek Confirmation Through Scripture: God’s will is never contrary to His Word. If a desire contradicts Scripture, it is not from God. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV says, "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work."
• Pray for Clarity and Wisdom: Ask God to clarify His will and give you wisdom to discern rightly. Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV encourages believers to bring everything to God in prayer and trust in His peace to guide decisions: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
• Consult with Wise Counsel: Discuss your thoughts with mature Christians who can offer objective advice and help you discern God’s will. Proverbs 15:22 NKJV reminds us, "Without counsel, plans go awry, But in the multitude of counselors they are established."
• Look for Peace: A sense of peace often accompanies God’s will, even if it leads to difficult decisions. Colossians 3:15 NKJV advises, "And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful."

By sincerely seeking God’s guidance, examining your motives, and relying on Scripture, prayer, and wise counsel, you can discern whether your desires are aligned with God’s will or are purely personal inclinations.