According to Ellen White, knowing God's will involves several key steps:
1. Surrender and Earnestness: God reveals His will to those who are truly earnest and anxious to be guided. It is important to make it your sincere desire to know and do God's will, rather than simply following your own inclinations (
3T 466.4;
4T 53.3).
2. Submission and Prayer: When seeking God's will, we should pray with earnestness but also with a spirit of submission, saying, "Nevertheless not my will, but Thine, be done," just as Jesus did (
MH 230.1;
GW 218.1).
3. Study of God’s Word: The primary way to know God's will is through studying the Bible. The knowledge of God and His will is found in His written word, and this is essential for true understanding (8T 63;
CE 84.1).
4. Obedience and Practice: As you act on the duties and truths already made clear to you, God will reveal more. Obedience to what you already know is key to understanding further guidance (
SC 111.2;
5T 644.1).
5. Guidance and Consecration: By choosing to serve God and surrendering your will to Him, He will work in you to accomplish His good pleasure, bringing your whole life under Christ’s control (
MH 176.2).
6. Humility and Growth: Those who walk in humble obedience and fulfill God’s purpose will continue to grow in their understanding of His will (
MH 465.2).
In summary, Ellen White teaches that knowing God’s will is a process involving earnest seeking, surrender, prayer, Bible study, obedience, and a humble, consecrated life. God’s will becomes clearer as you act on the light you have and continue to seek Him sincerely.
References:
- Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 466.4; vol. 4, p. 53.3
- Ellen G. White, The Ministry of Healing, p. 230.1; Gospel Workers, p. 218.1
- Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 63
- Ellen G. White, Christian Education, p. 84.1
- Ellen G. White, Steps to Christ, p. 111.2
- Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 644.1
- Ellen G. White, The Ministry of Healing, p. 176.2, p. 465.2
If you would like more specific guidance or examples, please let me know!