When you’re not sure what to do next, it’s easy to feel stuck, confused, and overwhelmed. You’ve prayed, sought God’s guidance, and done everything you know how to do, yet the next step seems unclear. Seasons of waiting can feel like wandering in the dark, but they are often where God does His deepest work in us.

Throughout the Bible, we see examples of people who faced uncertainty yet chose to trust God’s process. One powerful example is Joseph.

Joseph was a young man with incredible dreams, divinely inspired visions of a future where he would be in a position of great influence. But before those dreams came to fruition, Joseph endured years of hardship. He was betrayed by his own brothers, sold into slavery, falsely accused, and thrown into prison. Imagine how discouraging those years must have been, wondering if God’s promises had been forgotten.

And yet, Joseph’s story reveals a powerful truth: even when you’re not sure what to do next, God is always working behind the scenes. Those years of uncertainty were not wasted—they were preparing Joseph for the pivotal moment when he would rise to lead Egypt and save countless lives.

Why God Uses Seasons of Waiting

When you’re not sure what to do next, it’s not because God has abandoned you. These seasons of waiting are an essential part of His plan. Here’s why:

1. God Is Building Your Faith

When the next step isn’t clear, we’re forced to lean on God more fully. As Hebrews 11:1 reminds us, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” These moments teach us to trust Him, even when we can’t see the full picture.

2. God Is Refining Your Character

Seasons of uncertainty often expose areas of our lives that need growth. Just as Joseph’s trials shaped him into the wise leader he became, God uses waiting to refine our character, strengthen our faith, and prepare us for greater responsibilities.

3. God Is Aligning Circumstances for Your Good

While you wait, God is orchestrating events in ways you can’t yet see. Moses spent 40 years as a shepherd in the wilderness before God called him to deliver Israel. That time wasn’t wasted—it was preparation. God uses delays to align circumstances for His glory and your benefit.

What to Do When You’re Not Sure

When the next step feels unclear, here are some practical actions to take while you wait on God:

1. Remember His Promises

When God feels silent, return to His Word. Meditate on scriptures that remind you of His faithfulness, such as Psalm 27:14: “Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord!” Reflect on past moments when God came through for you—His promises are just as true now as they were then.

2. Stay Faithful in the Small Things

Sometimes, the next step isn’t a major revelation but continuing in the work He’s already given you. Whether it’s leading your family, serving your church, or remaining faithful in prayer, trust that obedience in small things leads to bigger breakthroughs.

3. Seek God Through Stillness

Uncertainty can drive us to busyness, trying to force a solution. Instead, carve out moments of stillness to listen for God’s voice. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” In quietness, you may discover the peace and clarity you’re seeking.

4. Surround Yourself With Wise Counsel

Proverbs 11:14 reminds us, “In the multitude of counselors there is safety.” God often speaks through others—mentors, pastors, or Spirit-filled friends—who can provide encouragement and insight during your waiting season.

Encouragement for Your Journey

When you’re not sure what to do next, take heart in knowing that you’re not alone. Many of God’s greatest servants walked through seasons of waiting before stepping into their calling. Moses spent decades tending sheep, Joseph endured years in prison, and even Paul spent time in obscurity before launching his ministry.

Remember, waiting is not a sign of failure or rejection. It’s part of God’s preparation. He is strengthening your faith, refining your character, and aligning circumstances for something greater.

If you’re looking for encouragement during this season of your life and ministry, we have sermons, studies, and articles designed to strengthen your faith and provide biblical insights at Preachit.org.

Explore More Articles about finding direction for your life and ministry here.

Even when you’re not sure what to do next, God does. Trust His leading, remain faithful where you are, and rest in the assurance that He is working all things together for your good (Romans 8:28). Your breakthrough is on the horizon—hold on to His promises, and know that He is with you every step of the way.

About Pastor James Smith

Pastor James Smith, Valparaiso, Indiana – Founder of PreachIt.org, OpportunityHope.org, and PastoralHelps.com.

He equips pastors worldwide with sermons, leadership tools, and encouragement, while also caring for orphaned and at-risk children in West Bengal, India through OpportunityHope. Beyond the orphanage and school, OpportunityHope provides clean water wells, livestock, and other humanitarian helps to families and villages in need. Additional books, leadership training, and mentoring resources are available through PastoralHelps.com.