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What does the Bible say about will?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that God’s will is sovereign and good, while human wills are weakened by sin and need His renewing grace. Jesus models joyful submission to the Father in Matthew 6:10, John 6:38, and Mark 14:36-38, even amid costly obedience. Philippians 2:13 assures believers that God works in them both to desire and to do what pleases Him, while Psalm 51:12 expresses the need for a willing spirit sustained by God. Apart from the Spirit, people do not receive God’s truth willingly, as 1 Corinthians 2:14 teaches. Therefore Christians should watch and pray against temptation, trust God’s presence, and live ready for Christ’s return.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Philippians 2:13

    For it is God who works in you both to will and to work, for his good pleasure.

  • Matthew 26:41

    Watch and pray, that you don't enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."

  • Hebrews 13:5

    Be free from the love of money, content with such things as you have, for he has said, "I will in no way leave you, neither will I in any way forsake you."

  • Psalms 51:12

    Restore to me the joy of your salvation. Uphold me with a willing spirit.

  • Matthew 6:10

    Let your Kingdom come. Let your will be done, as in heaven, so on earth.

  • 1 Corinthians 2:14

    Now the natural man doesn't receive the things of God's Spirit, for they are foolishness to him, and he can't know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

  • Mark 14:36-38

    [36] He said, "Abba, Father, all things are possible to you. Please remove this cup from me. However, not what I desire, but what you desire." [37] He came and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, "Simon, are you sleeping? Couldn't you watch one hour? [38] Watch and pray, that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."

  • John 6:38

    For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me.

  • Matthew 24:44

    Therefore also be ready, for in an hour that you don't expect, the Son of Man will come.

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