The Next Right Thing: What Do You Do When You Don’t Know What to Do?
Life can feel overwhelming when we don’t have a clear vision of what’s ahead. Uncertainty, big decisions, and the weight of responsibility can leave us feeling stuck, afraid to move forward, or even tempted to self-sabotage. But here’s the good news: we don’t have to figure out the whole journey—we just need to do the next right thing.
Scripture reminds us in Proverbs 3:5-6 to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” God doesn’t ask us to have all the answers—He asks us to trust Him. He wants us to walk with Him, learning to depend on His wisdom instead of our own limited understanding.
What Do We Do When We Don’t Know What to Do?
When faced with uncertainty, fear can creep in and keep us from making decisions. Just like I talked about in my episode about self-sabotage, perfectionism and the fear of failure can cause paralysis, making it feel safer to stay where we are rather than risk moving in the wrong direction. But the truth is, every small step forward is still progress.
Andy Stanley’s book The Best Question Ever suggests that in any situation, the wisest thing we can do is ask:
👉 “What is the wise thing to do in light of my past experiences, current circumstances, and future hopes and dreams?”
By asking this question and seeking God’s guidance, we can step forward in faith, trusting that He will direct our steps.
Small Steps Lead to Big Transformation
It’s easy to overlook small decisions, thinking they don’t make a difference. But transformation isn’t about giant leaps—it’s about consistent, faithful steps in the right direction. Zechariah 4:10 reminds us, “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.”
Even when we don’t know the full picture, God is working. Consider Ruth in the Bible—she didn’t know what her future held when she followed Naomi to Bethlehem. But by doing the next right thing, she walked into a destiny that made her part of the lineage of Christ (Ruth 1:16-17).
When Others Don’t Agree with Your Steps
Not everyone will understand or support the steps you take. But as we discussed in Walk With the Wise, Jesus tells us in Matthew 7:16, “You will recognize them by their fruit.” When making decisions, look for good fruit—peace, wisdom, and alignment with God’s Word. Surround yourself with wise counsel and people who point you toward truth, not just agreement.
God Leads When We Listen
God doesn’t always reveal the full plan because He wants us to depend on Him. If we knew every detail, we might trust the plan instead of the One who holds it. But when we seek Him through prayer, Scripture, and wise counsel, He will guide us.
Psalm 37:23 says, “The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in His way.”
So, instead of being overwhelmed by what’s ahead, focus on this moment. Trust God and do the next right thing. Then, watch how He transforms your life—one step at a time.
Listen now for free from any podcasting platform or by clicking the link above. Follow and connect with me on Instagram @teaoflifeposcast. Thanks so much for joining me.
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