Based on the writings of Ellen White, knowing God's will involves a combination of studying His word, surrendering your own will, and acting on the knowledge you already have. Here are some key principles on how to understand God's will: ### 1. Study God's Revealed Will—The Bible The primary source for understanding God's will is His written word. It is considered essential knowledge. > "The will of God is revealed in his written word, and this is the essential knowledge." (CE 84.1) > > "In order to know the will of God, you must study it, rather than follow your inclinations and the natural bent of your own mind. What wilt Thou have me to do?” should be the earnest, anxious inquiry of your heart." (4T 53.3) ### 2. Surrender Your Will to God A crucial step is the willingness to submit your own desires and plans to God. > "If we choose to serve God, we can give Him our will; then He will work in us to will and to do according to His good pleasure. Thus our whole nature will be brought under the control of Christ." (MH 176.2) ### 3. Act on the Light You Have God reveals His will progressively. By being faithful in the duties that are already clear, you will be prepared to understand more. > "Christ has said, “If any man willeth to do His will, he shall know of the teaching.” John 7:17, R.V. Instead of questioning and caviling concerning that which you do not understand, give heed to the light that already shines upon you, and you will receive greater light. By the grace of Christ, perform every duty that has been made plain to your understanding, and you will be enabled to understand and perform those of which you are now in doubt." (SC 111.2) ### 4. Pray with Submission When asking for guidance, it is important to pray with a heart submitted to God's wisdom, just as Jesus did. > "God knows the end from the beginning...This is one reason why, while presenting our petitions with earnestness, we should say, “Nevertheless not my will, but Thine, be done.” Luke 22:42. Jesus added these words of submission to the wisdom and will of God when in the Garden of Gethsemane He pleaded, “O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me.” Matthew 26:39. And if they were appropriate for Him, the Son of God, how much more are they becoming on the lips of finite, erring mortals!" (MH 230.1) ### 5. Seek God Earnestly God promises to guide those who are sincere in their desire to follow Him. > "The Lord reveals His will to those who are earnest and anxious to be guided." (3T 466.4) In summary, knowing God's will is not a passive experience but an active one that involves studying the Bible, surrendering your desires, obeying what you already know, and praying with a submissive spirit.