On knowing God's will - a graphical representation of my view

Explanation:

Three rows:

• Inputs: Opportunities, Interests, Circumstances, Limitations, Resources, Talents / Abilities (also giftedness)
• "The process" box: Mindful of God (Matthew 22:37, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind")
• Outputs: Valid, Christ-honoring choices

Example: HS graduate who:

• Interest: Has an interest in being a policeman
• Circumstances: Lives in US, Father was in the USMC, Uncle is a State Trooper. Athletic in HS
• Limitations: No outward physical limitations. Family has financial limitations.
• Opportunities / Options: Local community college / "The U" / Military service in various branches / Bible college that would mean dorm living and private college tuition
• Resources: Already mentioned financial limitations. But he would probably be eligible for Pell grants, et cetera
• Talents / Abilities: Hunts with his Father / outdoorsman
• Valid Christ-honoring outcomes / choices:
  • Join the Air Force (or another branch). MOS = military police
  • College: Community College / Bible College / "The U" all valid choices

A good book on the subject: Decision Making and the Will of God: A Biblical Alternative to the Traditional View