Have you ever been at a crossroad in your life, career or a relationship, and you just need God to tell you what to do? Have you ever needed some wisdom – godly wisdom – to deal with your kid’s problem, a work situation or broken relationship?
We’ve all been at that place at one point or another.
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7)
This verse is the perfect verse to give guidance to times just as these. When a situation is completely out of our control, like when praying for our military or for travel mercy, all we can do is “ask” God to intervene, provide, bless, protect, etc. Sometimes, we must “knock” when action on our part is needed like in the situation of sharing the gospel with someone so they can come to know our Savior, Jesus. But then there are those times we must “seek” God for wisdom, counsel and a needed answer.
These times are typically the most time sensitive because it seems like we always need God’s answer NOW, or yesterday. Can you relate?
Today’s Powerful Prayer Tip will focus on how to “seek” out God’s answer more effectively.
Just like there are various ways to “ask” God for something (petition, intercession, fasting), there are also various ways to “seek” God for an answer.
God’s Word
Obviously, this is a no-brainer, but allow me to give you a new revelation. If you are waiting until you need a word from the Lord, to search His Word, then you’ve already missed an opportunity for Him to reveal His plans. Over and over I have found that if I am consistently in God’s Word, His specific Word for my situation will find me.
The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)
Because believers in Christ are referred to as sheep, which are led, and Jesus is our Good Shepherd, He will typically speak to us by His word before an event occurs or in the beginning of such a circumstance.
Husband
If you are married, your husband can clarify a lot of things, and even make what you perceive as a matter of much contemplation a non-issue. Just by my husband giving me the answer, it can resolve the whole matter immediately. Most decisions we discuss and come to a mutual agreement, but there are those times my husband will just say, “No”, and it is done. There have been times, at least twice, I felt in my heart of hearts (which can be deceitful – Jeremiah 17:9) that he had made a bad decision; yet, it became clear that not only was his answer right (and of God),it greatly benefited me and my ministry in the long run.
"If they have any questions, they should ask their husbands at home…” (1 Corinthians 14:35)
I know this verse can be a controversial one, but if we can lay down our offense for a moment and reframe it, it can yield a sweet solution to our problems. Recently, I was battling something in my mind – should I return to the workforce or not? But then the Lord simply asked me, “Is your husband telling you to return to work?” Fact was that he wasn’t. If our finances are such that I need to return to the workforce, my husband WILL let me know. So immediately my mind was relieved, and I set aside that internal debate – matter resolved.
Mentors
“Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, 5to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.” (Titus 2:3-5)
If you do not have some godly women in your life that are your go-to people for advice, then you need to get some. Every woman needs someone to take their crazy to! If you cannot talk to your husband about a matter then talk to some godly women. The key word being “godly”. If you are consulting with women whom do not know Jesus, then you might as well consult with the devil.
Christian Counselors
For serious or complex issues, I highly recommend Christian counselors. Again, regardless of the issue, please seek help from professionals whom profess Jesus as Lord.
"Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers." (Psalm 1:1)
What proven methods have helped you seek God and find His answer?
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