As 2025 approaches, many are seeking clarity on their purpose and direction. In a recent YouTube teaching, pastor and author Vlad Savchuk of HungryGen Ministries laid out a seven-step guide for discerning God’s will in the coming year.
1. Start with Prayer and Fasting
Savchuk emphasizes the importance of beginning the year with intentional time devoted to prayer and fasting. He says, “Call to Me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things which you do not know” (Jer. 33:3). He encourages participation all believers to seek clarity in their current season and humbly surrender plans to God.
2. Ground Yourself in God’s Word
Quoting Psalm 119:105, “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path,” Savchuk urges believers to read Scripture daily. He explains that God’s Word “illuminates your next step” and helps Christians recognize His voice amidst life’s uncertainties.
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3. Listen to the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit, according to Savchuk, is the believer’s ultimate guide. “The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things” (John 14:26). Savchuk highlights the Spirit’s role in providing peace, conviction and guidance to navigate both opportunities and challenges in our lives.
4. Seek Wise Counsel
“Where there is no counsel, the people perish, but in the multitude of counselors there is safety” (Prov. 11:14). Savchuk points to the importance of seeking advice from trusted mentors and spiritual leaders, whose wisdom and experience can provide invaluable perspective for decision-making.
5. Recognize Open and Closed Doors
God often directs His followers through opportunities and obstacles. Referencing Revelation 3:8, Savchuk explains, “Sometimes God’s direction is revealed by circumstances He orchestrates.” He advises embracing open doors with faith while trusting God’s timing for those that remain closed.
6. Wait Patiently and Act in Faith
Balancing patience with bold action is critical, Savchuk notes. “Sometimes you have to take a step of faith, and the Jordan River splits.” While waiting builds trust, taking action demonstrates faith, even in uncertain seasons.
7. Do Everything Wholeheartedly as Unto God
Savchuk concludes with a call to excellence in every task, citing Colossians 3:23: “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” He explains that God blesses faithfulness, even in seasons of preparation, encouraging believers to embrace all opportunities to grow in Christ.
Savchuk’s message is one of hope and active faith that we all can all benefit from. As he affirms in his closing words: “Discern God’s will. Start with prayer and fasting. Begin to be grounded in God’s Word. Begin to listen to the Holy Spirit… Whatever you do, do it with all of your heart, as unto God.”
In 2025, let us take these lessons to heart, trusting God’s guidance as we seek His purpose for our lives.
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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.
