God, What Should I Do? | Joyce Meyer | Enjoying Everyday Life
Understanding God’s Plan: What Should I Do When Life Feels Uncertain?
As believers, we all encounter moments of uncertainty. Sometimes, we look at our lives and wonder, “God, what should I do?” The answer may not always come instantly, but the Bible shows us that God is deeply involved in every facet of our journey. Today, let’s explore how to navigate those uncertain seasons, drawing from the lessons found in John 21 and practical life experiences. Whether you’re facing a crisis or simply seeking daily guidance, God cares about the smallest details and is ready to guide you.
God Is with You in Every Moment
It’s important to start with a foundational truth: you are never alone. No matter where you are or what you’re facing, God is by your side. In John 21, the disciples gathered together at the Sea of Tiberias. After all they had experienced with Jesus—His miracles, His crucifixion, and now His absence—they found themselves at a crossroads, wondering what to do next.
When It Feels Like Jesus Is Distant
Have you ever felt like Jesus hasn’t shown up in your life for a while? Maybe you’ve prayed, planned, and hoped, but nothing seems to be moving. That was the case for Peter and the other disciples. They were fishermen before Jesus called them, and in a moment of frustration and uncertainty, Peter decided, “I’m going fishing!” Sometimes, when God feels distant, we’re tempted to revert back to old habits or what feels familiar.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking we can take control or figure things out on our own when we don’t see God moving. But as we see in this story, rushing ahead without God’s direction often leaves us empty-handed.
The Influence of Our Choices
Notice how quickly the other disciples followed Peter. Leadership carries influence—even when it’s unspoken. Whether you’re a parent, spouse, boss, or friend, people watch how you respond to uncertainty. Your actions speak louder than words. When you step out ahead of God, you not only risk your own well-being but may unintentionally lead others down the same path. That’s why it’s vital to seek God and walk in obedience, especially when others are impacted by your decisions.
Trusting God with Your Plans
After a night of fishing, Peter and the disciples caught nothing. Their best efforts, skills, and experience produced no results. How many times have we labored in our own strength—making plans, working late, worrying, strategizing—only to find ourselves frustrated and exhausted? Proverbs tells us, “In all your ways, acknowledge Him.” When we invite God into our day and our decisions, He guides and redirects us as needed.
James 4:13-15 reminds us that we really have no idea what tomorrow holds. We’re a mist, a vapor—here for a moment, then gone. Our importance comes from God’s care, not from how much we can achieve or plan. True peace comes when we say, “Lord, here’s what I think I’ll do today, but Your will be done. If You want to redirect me, I’m willing to follow.”
Recognizing God’s Presence in the Ordinary
As morning broke, Jesus appeared on the shore, but the disciples didn’t recognize Him. This wasn’t the first time; even those closest to Jesus sometimes missed His presence. We too can overlook God’s work, calling it luck or coincidence. But as believers, we know that God is actively involved—guiding, protecting, and caring for us in ways we may not always notice.
A good prayer for every day is, “God, don’t let me miss what you’re doing in my life.” Whether it’s a big breakthrough or a small grace, God cares about every detail, and we should be attentive to His presence.
Letting Go and Surrendering Control
Jesus called out to the disciples, “Children, did you catch anything?” Their honest answer was “No.” Sometimes, God lets us reach the end of ourselves so we’ll recognize that apart from Him, our efforts bear no fruit. Admit when your way isn’t working. It’s not weakness; it’s an invitation to trust God.
This might mean releasing your grip on situations you can’t change. Maybe you’re trying to manage your family, your job, or a relationship in your own strength. God is gently asking, “How’s your plan working? Are you ready to try it My way?” When we surrender and allow God to take the lead, He does far more than we ever could.
Doing Things God’s Way
Jesus instructed, “Cast your net on the right side of the boat.” It was such a simple request, yet it required trust. When the disciples obeyed, they were overwhelmed by a miraculous catch of fish—more than they could handle! The principle is timeless: when you listen for God’s voice and do things His way, blessing follows. Your breakthrough may be as simple as a small shift in obedience. Sometimes, faith means asking, “God, what do You want me to do?”—not out of frustration, but with a genuine desire to follow His will, even when His direction doesn’t make sense to our human reasoning.
Releasing Control and Finding Peace
In those moments of surrender, God often whispers, “Just let it go. Trust Me to handle it.” So many burdens are lifted when we stop striving and start relying on Him. Scripture invites us to cast our cares on the Lord, because He truly cares for us. As you learn to trade anxiety for trust, you’ll experience His peace and provision in ways you couldn’t imagine.
Celebrating God’s Attention to Detail
When the disciples hauled in
