How To Get An Answer For, “God, What Do You Want Me To Do?”

“God, What Do You Want Me To Do?”

It’s probably your most frequent prayer. Whispered as small choices confront you. God, what do you want me to do? Then a quick word of thanks as you decide and continue your day.

But more likely, you usually cry out this prayer in desperation at the major crossroads in your life.

Every job hunt, betrayal, or turning point.

Then it becomes your most frustrating prayer. Because then — when it matters most — you can’t seem to hear God’s answer.

Scripture tells us that God doesn’t answer every prayer immediately. That some requests require persistence.

Take Daniel, for instance. For 3 weeks, He prayed and fasted for an answer. He could have easily given up, thinking that God was silent. But hear the angel who brought God’s answer:

Then he said, “Don’t be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven.
I have come in answer to your prayer. But for twenty-one days the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia blocked my way.
Then Michael, one of the archangels, came to help me, and I left him there with the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia. Daniel 10:11-13 (NLT)

So, yes, sometimes you need persistent prayer. But what if He simply seems silent when you’re wondering, “God, what do I do now?”

Why You Can’t Hear God’s Answer

Why can you get an immediate answer to, “God, what do you want me to do?” when it’s time to choose new kitchen towels at Target.

But you get crickets when you need big answers. Like, “What does God want me to do with my life?”

It’s because, at those times, you often don’t want His answer. You want yours. Since deep down, you know His answer is probably going to make you uncomfortable.

I’m a classic example. For years I desperately cried out, “God, what do I do?” as I tried to find my calling.

I wanted specifics: a big vision and a complete road map. I even asked Him for a burning bush moment.

Instead, God gave me one small desire, which I completely ignored. Because:

1. I didn’t expect Him to answer the way He did.
2. His answer wasn’t the big, important vision I was looking for.
3. Pursuing it would be difficult and I was afraid to fail.
4. He didn’t give me a “how” so I didn’t trust Him to have an actual plan for me.
5. I didn’t trust Him to catch me if I fell.

Related:  Three Ways God Answers Prayers

God had answered my prayer before I’d even asked Him. And for years I overlooked it.

So, frustrated, I kept repeating my prayer, “God, what do you want me to do?” Until I abandoned it altogether.

Thankfully, I eventually wised up and followed the desire He gave me. Which turned out to be the first thread in the tapestry of His call on my life.

So what are you asking God for guidance on that’s being met with a wall of silence?

Is He actually silent? Or don’t you want to hear His answer?

Your Answer For, “God, What Do You Want Me To Do?”

God answers your questions about the specifics of your life in many ways. Sometimes, it’s the still, small voice, or a knowing in your gut. And sometimes, you have to search His word.

For example, His word answers directly if you ask, “God, what do you want me to do?”…

…When someone hurts you.

But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too. Mark 11:25 (NLT)

…When you’re trying to decide on your next career or business move.

Complete your outdoor work, and prepare your field; afterward, build your house. Proverbs 24:27 (CSB)

…And when you want to know His will for your life.

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8 (NLT)

See? He’s probably already answered your prayer about what to do. Either with that still, small voice, or your inner knowing, or through His word.

Now, seek Him fervently and frequently for your how. Then faithfully do what He says, and take your next best step.

Whatever the outcome, He’s got you.

The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand. Psalm 37:23-24 (NLT)

What Is YOUR Answer to “God, What Do You Want Me To Do?”