I beseech you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God. Romans 12:1-2.
This, in conjunction with the word of God, and serious prayers, is the best means to know the will of God. The neglecting of it, and using other means, is tempting God, and exposing ourselves to the temptations and siftings of the wicked one. We may think ourselves, to be divinely convinced by faith, of the will of God, though we follow our own imaginations, and spoil the best of our actions. Self-will generally takes quick resolutions, and has a great deal of assurance; whereas, God very often leads his people blindly, and takes methods quite different from ours. " Who therefore believes, shall not make haste." Isaiah 28:16. But be very careful that he do not mistake self-will and plausible representations, for divine convictions and assurance of faith; always strictly examining himself first, whether his body, soul, and affections, are entirely offered up to the good-will and pleasure of God. The only true service which God delights in, is the sacrificing our whole selves to him at all times; and not only at church, but in all other places, that we do not conform to the world, but be daily transformed by the renewing of our minds.
Lord, search my thoughts and try my way
And make my soul sincere;
Then shall I stand before thy face,
And find acceptance there.