Song Highlight–Take Your Time by Joseph O’Brien

Everybody has a prayer they wish God would answer. Whether it be about big things like finances or vocation, or small things like a fight with a friend, we all have something we want God to do for us. So we pray about it. 

Where should I go to college?

How do I minister to this person?

What should I do with my life?

Where do you want me to serve you? 

All good, fair questions. All things that, to our minds, God should be able to answer with no trouble. But then God doesn’t answer, and we’re left with a decision to be made and no guidance to go on. What do we do in these situations? 

First: Take a deep breath. It’s going to be okay. God hasn’t forgotten you, and He isn’t angry. He’s still right there, loving you immensely and giving you everything you need, even if it doesn’t feel like it. 

Second: Accept that God is in control. He always, always wants the best thing for you, and that means that He still has a plan, even if He isn’t giving you an answer yet. Do your best to remember that God is working in your life. As long as you’re remaining open to Him, you have nothing to worry about. Perhaps this is an opportunity to trust God more, or perhaps you’re already on the right path. No matter what the situation or solution, God is in control, and He sees you. “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father’s will. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” (Matthew 10:29-31).

Third: Don’t stop praying. And don’t be afraid to ask others to pray for you, even if you don’t give them specifics. “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:20). There is power in prayer, and God may just be asking you to be patient and trust Him a little more before He reveals the answer. 

And finally, fourth: Don’t be afraid to do the next right thing. If you’ve seriously prayed about these things, and you still haven’t received an answer, consider if it’s time to take another deep breath and choose the next right thing. Maybe you’re already on the path you’re supposed to be on, and God doesn’t need to lead you in a different direction. If you believe this is where the Lord is calling you, then breathe, trust Him, and take the step. Even if it turns out to be the wrong one, God will work with it, and He’ll call you back if you go astray. Trust in Him.