What To Do When You Don't Know What To Do

Problems, pressures, and pains can give us paralysis of analysis. We get caught up spending time trying to figure out our troubles. As a result, we get stuck while fear alters our focus and frustration begins to dominate our feelings. Our ability to make reasonable decisions seems like a distant memory, and problem-solving seems impossible.
In those moments, we need to know what to do when we don't know what to do! Thankfully, Scripture provides us with many helpful and time-saving commands. However, even though we may be familiar with these truths and verses, applying them can be a whole other challenge. Often, God's guidance goes against our feelings and our desire to control situations. Therefore, humility combined with obedience is essential for receiving and acting on what God wants us to do, and ultimately, what we need to do.

James 1:2-4 says, "Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 And let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing."

James emphasizes that trials will come, making difficulties a part of life. Notice, we are commanded to focus on our joy rather than our adversity when faced with life's trials. That's the secret sauce. The hidden gem. The family recipe. Our first and most important step when dealing with adversity of any kind is to double down in our focus on God.  
Through the years, I have seen both positive and negative examples of faith within the church. I have witnessed people facing health crises, significant family loss, sudden unemployment, and financial hardships who remain steadfast in their commitment to God. Conversely, I have also seen individuals use their struggles as an excuse to step away from the church or abandon their faith altogether. While they may continue to go to work or enjoy leisure activities, God is no longer a priority for them.

I have never felt compelled to judge either perspective because I understand that sometimes life can be so challenging that we lose sight of reality and what truly matters. However, we cannot allow our adversities to serve as excuses. Instead, let your troubles inspire you to persevere and pursue God even more fervently. As a result, you will undoubtedly grow closer and stronger to the Lord.

Perhaps that is what James was alluding to when he spoke about joy, endurance, and the importance of lacking nothing.

In simple terms, when you're unsure of what to do during a trial, turn to God and promptly act on His commands.