What to Do When You Don’t Know What to Do
Life would be easy if there weren’t so many decisions. Should we look for a new job? What schooling choice should I make for my child? How should I schedule my day? Or how in the world will I ever get past this conflict with my husband/child/friend/co-worker?
When you don’t know what to do . . . what you do speaks volumes.
Do you call others for advice?
Do you Google the question, looking for answers?
Do you see input from a professional?
Do you share your problem, hoping to gain sympathy?
Do you talk through your concerns with those who have a stake in your decision, seeking advice?
Do you listen? Really listen to the concerns of others?
Or do you ask for prayer?
Sometimes I find myself doing everything but praying. And even then sometimes I ask with the wrong motives. Do you do the same thing?
When you ask for prayer, do you spill out every detail? (Hoping for advice as a bonus.)
Or do you ask simply, knowing God already knows the issue?
Do you pay attention to the messages God sends to you? (They seem to pop up in books, in conversations, in memories.)
Sometimes the best thing to do when making a decision is to consider where God has led you before. Think back to the last thing He’s told you. And then continue to draw close to Him.
God leads us:
Through His Word.
Through His still, small voice.
It’s our job to stay connected. It’s our job to weigh the thoughts that enter our mind, putting them on a scale and deciphering lies from truth.
Finding the truth is also the best way to rid you of your worries.
Do you worry about your comfort, your image, or your pride?
Or do you ask God to push you out of your comfort zone so He can be glorified?
Do you step back, so God can show up?
Do you get on your knees and open up your heart to Him?
Print off the ‘What to do…’ printable to remind yourself what to do and what not to do!
When you don’t know what to do…
You can do something.
You can worry and wait.
Or you can wait and seek.
You can seek . . . and wait for the peace of God to come.
God’s direction may lead to complete dependance on Him. (It most likely will.)
God’s plan will be foolish to many. (Because of their own worries and concerns about how your decision impacts them . . . or compassionate worries for your welfare.)
God’s peace will make your roots go deep, into Him, as He guides your decision.
God’s love will be displayed, as your walk of faith is watched.
God’s joy will come in unexpected times and in unexpected ways.
When you don’t know what to do . . .
Turn to the One who has the right answer.
Turn to the One who is the right answer.
If what you do speaks volumes, what He does fills the expanse of the sky.
God’s way is the one you’d choose if you know everything (& love completely) as He does.
I promise.
Steps You Can Take
- When you find yourself in a situation where you don’t know what to do, turn to God first!
- Pray for guidance and wisdom for the decision you have to make.
- Approach a few of your close friends and family and ask they prayer for you, too.
- Pay attention to the signs and messages God may be showing you.
- Follow God’s plan and know you are following the best plan!
Prayer
God, so often I find myself at a loss, wondering what to do next. May I always turn to you first and not look to other people or outlets for answers. Help me to be discerning of your will and be obedient to your plan. Thank you for always leading and guiding me.
Tricia Goyer has written more than 35 books, including both novels that delight and entertain readers and nonfiction titles that offer encouragement and hope. She has also published more than 500 articles in national publications such as Guideposts, Thriving Family, Proverbs 31, and HomeLife Magazine.
