When You Don't Know What To Do

There are times in all of our lives when we find ourselves in situations that are difficult to understand and tough to navigate. We’re at a loss — not knowing what to do. In such moments our abilities, wisdom, personal resources or experiences are insufficient to meet the demands placed on us, respond to the threat in front of us, or choose the path that is best for us.

What do we do in times like these?

We learn a great lesson about handling such situations from a story in the Old Testament. Jehoshaphat, one of the kings of Judah, found himself facing a very difficult circumstance. Three large armies planned to attack this small nation. Jehoshaphat was out-numbered and out-resourced by these enemy forces. Everything about the situation spelled disaster for Jehoshaphat and this little country.

But Jehoshaphat had one good thing going for him. He knew God! Although Judah was small and weak, God was big and strong! Although a natural assessment of the threat read defeat, adding God to the equation meant victory!

Notice what Jehoshaphat did as soon as he heard about the approaching armies:

“The people of Judah came together to seek help from the LORD; indeed, they came from every town in Judah to seek him.” — 2 Chronicles 20:4

The first thing the king did was call a prayer meeting. He knew that Judah needed God’s help, and he did not hesitate to ask for it.

Jehoshaphat brought his prayer for God’s help to a conclusion with a very powerful, significant and instructional declaration:

” … We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you.”

In the midst of his insecurity, uncertainty and consternation, King Jehoshaphat made the key decision that made a major difference in his situation. He focused his attention on God. He took his eyes off of the problem placed them on the One who was the solution!

Here is a great lesson for us. When you are facing something that is taxing your faith, strength or abilities, or threatening your destiny, and you don’t now what to do, do what Jehoshaphat did. Take your eyes off of the problem and focus on the One who is the solution to your problem.

God didn’t disappoint King Jehoshaphat. The Lord gave Judah an incredible, supernatural victory. And when you look to Him, the Lord will not disappoint you!

Dale O'Shields

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