According to Ellen White’s writings, knowing God’s will is a process that involves several key steps:
1. Surrender and Earnestness: God reveals His will to those who are truly earnest and anxious to be guided. Surrendering your own will and being intentional in seeking God’s direction is essential (
3T 466.4).
2. Submission in Prayer: When we pray, we should submit our desires to God, saying, “Not my will, but Thine, be done,” just as Jesus did. This attitude of submission allows God to guide us according to what is best (
MH 230.1;
GW 218.1).
3. Study and Obedience: To know God’s will, we must study the Bible carefully and humbly, asking, “What wilt Thou have me to do?” The knowledge of God’s will is found in His word (
4T 53.3; 8T 63).
4. Willingness to Do God’s Will: If we are willing to obey what God has already revealed, He will give us greater understanding (
SC 111.2, quoting John 7:17).
5. The Bible as the Standard: God’s will is revealed in the Scriptures, which define our duty and provide essential knowledge (
CE 84.1).
6. Faith and Works: True faith in Christ leads us to desire nothing more than to know and do God’s will. Faith is made perfect by obedience (
5T 644.1).
7. Practical Guidance: God’s counsel brings clarity to everyday decisions and challenges. Those who seek to honor God in all things will receive heavenly wisdom (
8T 141.1).
In summary, Ellen White teaches that knowing God’s will involves surrendering your own desires, earnestly seeking God’s guidance, studying the Bible, being willing to obey, and trusting God’s wisdom. As you follow these steps with humility and faith, God promises to reveal His will more clearly.
References:
- Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 466.4; vol. 4, p. 53.3; vol. 5, p. 644.1; vol. 8, pp. 63, 141.1.
- Ellen G. White, The Ministry of Healing, p. 230.1.
- Ellen G. White, Gospel Workers, p. 218.1.
- Ellen G. White, Steps to Christ, p. 111.2.
- Ellen G. White, Christian Education, p. 84.1.
If you’d like more specific examples or further explanation from her writings, feel free to ask!