How can we tell if we're following God's will?

We may know God's will, but that doesn't necessarily mean we're following it. Like James says, "even the demons believe," pointing out one can believe in God but not truly be a follower of Christ (James 2:19).

So how can we tell if we are truly following God's will for our lives?

This again goes back to assessing if we're producing fruit. And fortunately for us, God gives us a specific list of the "fruit of the Spirit" that help us to know if we're followers or only fans of Jesus:

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." (Galatians 5:22-33)

This list acts as a mirror we can hold up against ourselves. Have we been loving with others? Do we have patience or do we cut people off while driving out of anger? Do we drink too much? Are we gentle with our children or quick to verbally dress them down?

If you've confessed to any of these things, take heart. God offers us the gift of repentance (turning away from) these sins and walking with Him in His peace. Tell Him you're sorry. Ask Him for the gifts of the Spirit and the constant reminder to keep your thoughts on Him.

And lastly? Act on these things. God can lead us and guide us, but unless we actively choose to work with Him (2 Corinthians 6:1), then we're essentially giving God lip service and not total access to our hearts.