God's will? How to know it...

As believers, we spend a lot of time trying to understand the concept of God's will:  What is it, how do I find it, what if I'm wrong. And while I can't give you details on your specific situation, I can offer six elements of God's will found in the New Testament.  Once you've aligned yourself with these specific guidelines, the Holy Spirit will direct you in the other areas of your life...I promise.  He'll make sure you know what he needs you to know if you are obedient to these scriptural guidelines.

1. Ephesians 5:17-18 - "Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit."  The Bible is clear that drinking alcohol is not a sin however it's very specific on your level of consumption, if you've allowed it to master you and if you're taking your "christian liberty" in this area lightly by not being sensitive to those who struggle in this area.  So, instead of being filled with alcohol, be filled with the counsel and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
2. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 - "It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality."  Again, the Bible's pretty clear with regards to sex:  Within the bounds of marriage, awesome; outside of marriage, sin (this includes what goes on in your mind, what you look at on any screen, etc).  In addition, this verse reminds that, in your spiritual walk, there should be a growing, gradual conforming to the image of Christ Jesus (sanctification).
3. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 - "Be grateful and give thanks in ALL things.  For this is God's will concerning you."  It may be hard sometimes, but thankfulness needs to be the foundation of your thinking in regards to ALL aspects of your life (God, spouse, children, community, government, finances, etc).
4. 1 Peter 2:13-15 - "Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority...For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people."  Submission is a dirty word in today's culture but it's God's will that you submit to all sorts of people in all sorts of circumstances.  Why?  Because the humility it takes to surrender your rights is ultimately the most Christ-like thing you can do.
5. 1 Peter 3:17 - "It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for evil."  Always, always, always do the right thing, take the high road, live righteously...even if it means you'll suffer for it.
6. 2 Peter 3:9 - "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."  God's promises are trustworthy and true and he HAS to keep them because he cannot deny himself.  Cling to this truth when impatience causes you to doubt him.  His heart is FOR you; wherever you are and whatever you are doing.