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 knowing and doing God's will a priority, rather than following personal inclinations. The sincere question should be, “What wilt Thou have me to do?” (
3T 466.4;
4T 53.3)
2. Submission and Prayer: When praying, we should submit our desires to God, saying, “Nevertheless not my will, but Thine, be done.” This attitude of submission is essential for understanding God's guidance. (
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. God’s will is revealed in His written word, and this knowledge is essential for spiritual growth. (8T 63;
CE 84.1)
4. Obedience and Practice: As we obey what God has already revealed, we gain greater understanding. By faithfully performing known duties, God will make further guidance clear. (
SC 111.2;
MH 465.2)
5. Consecration and Service: By choosing to serve God and surrendering our will to Him, He works in us to accomplish His good pleasure, bringing our whole being under Christ’s control. (
MH 176.2)
In summary, Ellen White teaches that knowing God’s will is a process of earnest seeking, surrender, prayerful submission, diligent Bible study, and practical obedience. As we walk in the light we have, God will reveal more of His will to us.
References:
- White, E. G. (1872-1875). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, p. 466.4; Vol. 4, p. 53.3.
- White, E. G. (1905). The Ministry of Healing, pp. 176.2, 230.1, 465.2.
- White, E. G. (1915). Gospel Workers, p. 218.1.
- White, E. G. (1904). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 8, p. 63.
- White, E. G. (1890). Christian Education, p. 84.1.
- White, E. G. (1892). Steps to Christ, p. 111.2.
If you would like more specific guidance or examples, please let me know!