God, What Do I Do? Making Wise Decisions in Uncertain Timesනියැදිය

SOS Prayers

In today’s passage, we read that Joshua has died. The Israelites desperately need direction for what’s next. They aren’t sure what to do, so they ask God for help. That is always the right move!

When you’re faced with uncertainty, what do you do? Is prayer your go-to? Is it the first thing you turn to when you are unsettled? Or does it feel like another must-do on your never-ending to-do list? Knowing where to start can be a challenge when you’re faced with a giant-sized task.

God answers His people in Judges 1:2 and gives specific instructions that Judah is to go first to fight against the Canaanites. Not only does God answer their question, He goes a step further and assures them He has handed the land over to them. What comfort!

If we want godly insight, relief from our burdens, and power beyond our own ability, prayer is the method God has graciously provided to us. It’s how we directly communicate with Him.

The other day, a friend said something like, “I don’t pray as eloquently as other people do. My prayers are awkward and super simple.” I assured her that fancy words don’t impress God and SOS prayers totally count. “God, help!” “God, please show me what to do!” “God, I need You!”

What about you? What do you need help with? Are you feeling overwhelmed by all that is left undone? Do you feel alone in the decision-making process?

Take a cue from the Israelites in Judges 1:1 and:

• Pray when you don’t know the way.
• Pray when you feel alone.
• Pray when you are uncertain what’s next.

After you pray, it’s time to listen. It can be tempting to make prayer a one-way conversation, to keep talking to God and pouring out our hurts, complaints, needs, and desires. We must remember to listen as well.

It would be foolish to bypass the wisdom God is ready to impart. He speaks to us through His Spirit, Scripture, and godly counsel. Ask God to help you hear His voice. Ask Him if there is something impeding your ability to hear Him.

Question: How would you fill in the blank? God, what do I do about ______________? Talk some time to talk to God about that which concerns you. He deeply cares for you!