What to Do When You Don’t Know What to Do
Life is full of decisions—big ones, small ones, everyday choices, and momentous crossroads. From deciding which career path to pursue to choosing the best schooling for your children. All these decisions can leave you feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, and paralyzed by indecision. Especially when the road ahead seems so unclear. But in those moments when you don’t know what to do, you can take heart because God is there. His Word and His presence provide clarity, peace, and direction in times of uncertainty.
Today, let’s explore four practical steps to take when you find yourself at a crossroads and saying, “I don’t know what to do!”
Pray and Read Your Bible
The first thing you should do when you don’t know what to do is turn to God. This involves both God’s Word and prayer, and continually turning to God in your uncertainty can create a beautiful cycle of seeking and communicating with your Creator. As you immerse yourself in God's Word, you encounter His will, promises, and the purpose He has for your life. You can pray and ask God for understanding, strength, and the ability to live according to His Word. Your prayers open your heart to receive the truths found in Scripture, deepening your relationship with God, and guiding you toward decisions that honor Him.
By engaging in both prayer and Bible reading, you can cultivate a life centered on God, ensuring that your decisions and actions reflect His will. This practice not only provides clarity in times of uncertainty but also strengthens your trust in God’s sovereignty and His perfect timing. As you continue this cycle of prayer and Scripture, you can rest knowing that God is guiding you every step of the way, no matter how uncertain the path may seem.
Talk with a Mentor
While praying and reading the Bible are foundational, God also uses people to help you navigate life’s decisions. Proverbs 15:22 says, “Plans fail when there is no counsel,
but with many advisers they succeed.” Sometimes, you need the wisdom and perspective of others—especially those who have walked the road before you. A mentor can be an invaluable resource during times of uncertainty. Whether it’s a friend, a family member, or someone from your church, a trusted mentor can offer godly counsel, listen without judgment, and provide wisdom from their own experiences.
For young adults especially, mentors can help guide the process of discerning God’s will. Look out for Where Do I Go From Here?—an upcoming Daily Grace book for young adults when navigating life feels overwhelming. Reading through a resource like this alongside a mentor can provide additional clarity, helping you to process your feelings and thoughts in a safe space and make decisions that honor God.
Make a Decision
Making decisions can be intimidating, especially if you’re still unsure. But here’s the truth: God is sovereign over every aspect of your life. While your decisions matter, nothing you choose can thwart God’s ultimate plan for you. God’s sovereignty means that He is in control and will work everything together for your good (Romans 8:28).
This means there’s no reason to be afraid of making the “wrong choice.” God’s love isn’t conditional on your decisions. He’s a loving Father who gently leads His children. Therefore, even when you falter, He will guide you back to the right path. So don’t be afraid to move forward in faith. Trust that God is with you in the decision-making process—and that He will be with you no matter the outcome.
As long as you seek to honor God and follow His guidance, He will direct your steps (Proverbs 3:5–6).
So, when you don’t know what to do, remember that God is your ultimate source of wisdom and peace. Start by praying and reading your Bible, then seek counsel from a trusted mentor or wise friend who can help you discern God’s will. Finally, take a step of faith and make a decision, trusting that God’s sovereignty covers every choice you make. There’s no decision that is too big for Him. He is always with you. God’s guidance is available to you in every season of life.
Additional resources for When You Don’t Know What to Do:
