5 Examples of Permissive Will in the Bible (And Lessons to Learn from Them)

1. King Saul: Israel’s Demand for a King

In 1 Samuel 8, Israel’s fervent desire for a king serves as a poignant example of the permissive will of God in the Bible.

Despite having been led directly by divine guidance, the Israelites yearned to emulate the nations around them, showcasing a profound lack of trust in God’s sovereignty.

Their insistence on having a human king, despite Samuel’s warnings about the inevitable burdens and consequences, illustrates how our own desires can cloud our judgment and lead us away from God’s perfect plan.

In granting their request, God allowed them to experience the ramifications of their choice, illustrating that His permissive will does not negate the seriousness of our decisions.

The rise and fall of King Saul further exemplifies this theme. Initially chosen by God to lead His people, Saul’s reign quickly devolved into disobedience and turmoil, underscoring that not all paths taken are aligned with divine purpose.

This narrative invites reflection on our own lives: how often do we pursue what seems appealing or popular, only to find ourselves entangled in difficulties?

Just as Israel learned through their desire for a king, we too must remember that when we reject God’s guidance in favor of our own plans, we may inadvertently walk into a cycle of struggle and disappointment.

Ultimately, the story serves as a reminder to seek God’s will rather than our own, trusting that His plans are far greater than anything we can envision.

2. Balaam: God Allows What He Doesn’t Approve

Balaam’s story is a profound illustration of how God’s permissive will operates, allowing individuals to pursue paths that diverge from His divine intention while still holding them accountable for their choices.

In Numbers 22, we witness Balaam’s unsettling dance between divine instruction and personal ambition.

God’s initial refusal to let Balaam curse Israel was clear, yet the prophet’s relentless pursuit of his own desires led to a moment of tragic irony: God permitted him to go, but not without stern warnings.

This scenario serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of attempting to straddle the line between obedience and self-interest.

The extraordinary encounter with the talking donkey and the angel with a sword is not merely a whimsical narrative but a powerful reminder of the lengths to which God will go to steer us back on course.

Balaam’s insistence on pursuing his own agenda, despite divine disapproval, underscores a critical lesson about the consequences of disregarding God’s commands.

Other examples of permissive will in the Bible, such as King Saul’s unfaithfulness or the Israelites’ demand for a king, reveal a recurring theme: God may allow certain decisions, but the fallout can be devastating.

Balaam’s journey exemplifies how our choices can lead us down treacherous paths, reminding us that God’s allowance does not equate to His approval.

3. Hezekiah: A Granted Request That Led to Trouble

Hezekiah’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities surrounding God’s permissive will.

While his earnest prayer for more time was granted, it opened a door to unforeseen consequences that altered the course of Judah’s history.

The additional fifteen years gave rise not only to his pride but also to the birth of Manasseh, a king whose reign would plunge the nation into moral decay and idolatry.

This narrative challenges us to reflect on our own desires — how often do we fervently pray for something, only to later recognize that it may not align with God’s ultimate plan for our lives?

In the broader context of biblical stories of permissive will, Hezekiah’s experience illustrates that divine responses can come with complexities.

God’s willingness to grant requests does not always equate to endorsement of the choices that follow.

The unintended fallout from Hezekiah’s life decisions urges us to approach prayer with humility, recognizing that what we perceive as blessings may carry hidden burdens.

Ultimately, this tale invites us to seek alignment with God’s perfect will, rather than merely pursuing our immediate desires, reminding us that sometimes, what we wish for may lead us down paths of unexpected turmoil.

4. The Prodigal Son: Free Will Within the Father’s House

In the parable of the prodigal son, we glimpse a profound truth about free will within the divine framework of love.

The father’s decision to allow his son to leave, despite knowing the potential consequences, reflects a deeper understanding of God’s permissive will.

This approach is not merely about granting freedom; it’s about nurturing growth through experience.

The son’s journey into recklessness serves as a poignant reminder that sometimes we must confront the harsh realities of our choices to appreciate the warmth of unconditional love.

As the prodigal son finds himself destitute and broken, his return to his father’s house becomes a transformative moment, highlighting another layer of this narrative: the grace that awaits us when we choose to come back.

The father’s immediate embrace signifies not just forgiveness but an invitation to re-enter a relationship built on love and acceptance.

This story resonates with other stories of permissive will in the Bible, such as Jonah’s flight from God or Israel’s request for a king, illustrating that while our choices may lead us astray, they do not sever our connection to divine grace.

Ultimately, the parable underscores that even when we stray far from home, love is always ready to welcome us back with open arms, reminding us of the redemptive power inherent in our freedom.

5. Lot Choosing Sodom: A Permissible but Risky Choice

Lot’s choice to settle near Sodom serves as a poignant example of permissive will in the Bible, illustrating how appearances can be deceiving.

The lush plains promised immediate benefits — fertile soil for agriculture and proximity to a thriving city — but overlooked the moral decay that characterized Sodom.

This decision highlights a critical lesson: while God permits us the freedom to choose, not every option aligns with His divine wisdom.

Lot’s preference for material prosperity over spiritual safety ultimately led him into peril, emphasizing that what glitters may not always be gold.

This narrative resonates with other examples of permissive will in the Bible, such as Israel’s demand for a king despite God’s warning about the consequences.

Just as Lot prioritized earthly gains, the Israelites sought a ruler to be like other nations, ignoring the dangers of losing their unique covenant relationship with God.

These stories remind us that while we may have the liberty to make our own choices, discerning God’s will is crucial.

As we navigate life’s decisions, we should seek wisdom beyond surface-level attractiveness, ensuring our paths align with God’s greater purpose and protection.

✅ How to Know the Difference Between God’s Perfect and Permissive Will

Understanding the distinction between God’s perfect and permissive will is essential for discerning our life paths.

God’s perfect will represents His ideal plan for our lives, characterized by a deep alignment with His purposes and the fulfillment of His promises.

It often involves moments of clarity, peace, and confirmation through Scripture, prayer, and community.

When we are aligned with this will, we experience a profound sense of purpose and joy, as if we are walking in rhythm with the divine.

In contrast, God’s permissive will allows for human choices, including those that deviate from His perfect plan.

This aspect reflects His grace, permitting us to make decisions — even those that may lead us away from the best outcomes.

Recognizing this can be enlightening; it invites us to reflect on our choices without fear of condemnation.

Instead, it encourages us to seek God’s guidance continually, understanding that even in our missteps, He can redirect our paths toward restoration and growth.

By fostering a relationship grounded in dialogue and openness, we can navigate the complexities of life while remaining attuned to the whispers of His perfect will amidst our everyday decisions.

Examples of Permissive Will in the Bible (Summary)

The Bible offers clear examples of God’s permissive will—times when He allowed choices that were not His perfect desire.

From Israel’s demand for a king, to Balaam’s misguided obedience, to Lot’s risky decision, each story shows us that while God may permit certain paths, they often lead to consequences that could have been avoided.

As believers, we’re called not just to seek what’s allowed, but to pursue what’s best.

God’s perfect will is always rooted in love, wisdom, and eternal purpose.

When we trust Him fully, wait patiently, and surrender our desires, we step into the fullness of what He intends for our lives.

Let’s learn from the mistakes of others in Scripture and choose obedience, discernment, and faith. God’s best is always worth the wait—and it brings peace, purpose, and lasting fruit.

FAQs About Permissive Will in the Bible

1. What is the difference between God’s permissive and perfect will?

God’s perfect will is His ideal plan for our lives, while His permissive will is what He allows, even if it’s not His best for us.

2. Is permissive will supported in Scripture?

Yes. Examples like Israel choosing Saul as king and Balaam going against God’s first answer reveal how God allows choices outside His perfect plan.

3. Can God still use us if we follow His permissive will?

Absolutely. God can redeem our mistakes, but it’s always better to seek and follow His perfect will to avoid unnecessary pain.

4. How do I know if I’m in God’s perfect will?

God’s perfect will aligns with Scripture, produces peace, glorifies Him, and often comes with confirmation through prayer and godly counsel.

5. What should I do if I’ve followed God’s permissive will?

Repent, realign with God’s Word, and trust His grace. Like the prodigal son, you can always return to the Father and be restored.