When faced with daunting challenges in life, it’s natural to seek guidance from a higher power. Throughout history, figures like Abraham, Moses, and Esther encountered moments when they were called to do something difficult by God. Whether it’s stepping into the unknown, making sacrifices, or overcoming fears, navigating these moments requires faith, trust, and courage.
In this article, we’ll explore what to do when God asks you to do something difficult. Drawing from biblical examples and practical wisdom, we’ll uncover strategies to embrace the journey, overcome obstacles, and find purpose in obedience. So, let’s dive in and discover how to navigate these pivotal moments in life.
What To Do When God Asks You To Do Something Difficult
When faced with a challenging task that seems beyond our capacity, it’s essential to approach it with humility and openness to divine guidance. Here are actionable steps to take when God asks you to do something difficult:
#1. Pray for Guidance
The journey begins with prayer. Take time to quiet your mind, connect with the divine, and seek clarity. Share your concerns, fears, and uncertainties with God. Ask for wisdom and discernment to understand His will. Just as Jesus sought guidance in Gethsemane before His crucifixion, prayer allows us to align our hearts with God’s purpose and receive strength for the journey ahead.
#2. Listen for His Voice
God often speaks to us in subtle ways—through scripture, prayer, meditation, or even the wise counsel of others. Cultivate a spirit of attentiveness and receptivity to His guidance. Like Elijah hearing the still, small voice amidst the chaos, tuning into God’s voice requires quieting the noise of the world and being open to unexpected avenues of communication. Remember, God’s voice may not always come as a thunderous proclamation but rather as a gentle whisper in the depths of our hearts.
#3. Seek Confirmation
When God calls us to a challenging task, He often provides confirmation through various means. Look for patterns, signs, or confirmatory messages that affirm His direction. It could be a repeated scripture verse, an encouraging word from a friend, or a sense of peace in your spirit. Just as Joseph received confirmation through dreams and divine interventions, God reaffirms His plans for us in ways that resonate with our hearts. Pay attention to these confirmations—they serve as guiding lights along the path of obedience.
#4. Trust His Plan
Trusting God’s plan can be difficult, especially when it diverges from our expectations or comfort zones. Yet, faith requires surrendering our will to His higher purpose. Remember the example of Mary, who willingly accepted the daunting task of being the mother of Jesus despite the uncertainties and societal stigma.
Trusting God’s plan doesn’t mean the absence of doubt or fear but choosing to believe that His ways are higher and His intentions are good. Even in moments of uncertainty, hold fast to the assurance that God’s plan unfolds in perfect timing and according to His unfailing love.
#5. Prepare Yourself
Preparation is crucial when embarking on a journey of obedience. Equip yourself spiritually, mentally, and emotionally for the challenges ahead. Invest time in studying scripture, cultivating spiritual disciplines, and nurturing resilience.
Like Nehemiah, who diligently prepared and planned before rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, thorough preparation positions us to face difficulties with confidence and conviction. Anticipate obstacles and setbacks, but let them serve as opportunities for growth and refinement. As you prepare, trust that God will equip you with everything you need to fulfill His calling.
#6. Face Your Fears
Facing fears is an integral part of walking in obedience to God’s call, especially when the task at hand seems daunting or overwhelming. Acknowledge your fears and confront them with faith and courage.
Remember the story of Jonah, who initially tried to flee from God’s assignment out of fear, only to find redemption and purpose in obedience. Identify what specific fears are holding you back—fear of failure, rejection, or uncertainty—and surrender them to God. Allow His perfect love to cast out all fear and embolden you to step forward with confidence.
#7. Take Action
Obedience requires action. Once you’ve discerned God’s will and prepared yourself, it’s time to take decisive steps forward. Trust that God will guide your actions as you step out in faith. Consider the example of Peter, who stepped out of the boat to walk on water towards Jesus.
Despite the storm raging around him, Peter’s faith propelled him forward until fear caused him to falter. Similarly, trust that God will uphold you and empower you to accomplish what He has called you to do. Take one step at a time, trusting that each step taken in obedience is a step towards fulfilling God’s purpose for your life.
#8. Stay Connected
Maintaining a close relationship with God is vital when navigating challenging tasks. Stay connected to Him through prayer, scripture, worship, and fellowship with other believers. Like a branch connected to the vine, draw your strength and sustenance from God’s presence.
Jesus emphasized the importance of abiding in Him, for apart from Him, we can do nothing. In moments of doubt or discouragement, anchor yourself in the truth of God’s promises and the assurance of His presence. Let His peace guard your heart and mind as you press forward in obedience.
#9. Seek Support
Don’t walk the journey alone. Surround yourself with a community of believers who can offer encouragement, accountability, and support. Share your burdens and joys with trusted friends or mentors who can walk alongside you in prayer and solidarity.
Just as Moses had Aaron and Hur to support him when his arms grew weary during battle, lean on others for strength and encouragement. Allow them to lift you up in prayer, offer practical assistance, and speak truth into your life. Together, you can bear one another’s burdens and fulfill God’s purposes in unity.
#10. Reflect and Learn
Every step of obedience is an opportunity for growth and learning. Take time to reflect on your experiences, both successes, and failures, and glean wisdom from them. Consider journaling your thoughts, prayers, and insights as you navigate the journey.
Like Joseph, who learned valuable lessons through his trials and tribulations, embrace each experience as a chance to deepen your faith and understanding of God’s ways. Celebrate victories, no matter how small, and learn from setbacks with humility and grace. Ultimately, let every experience draw you closer to God and shape you into the person He has called you to be.
Closing Thoughts
When God asks you to do something difficult, it’s an invitation to deepen your faith, trust, and reliance on Him. Remember the stories of Abraham, Moses, and Esther—ordinary people who stepped into the extraordinary by obeying God’s call.
As you navigate challenges with courage and obedience, may you find strength in His presence, comfort in His promises, and purpose in His plan. Embrace the journey, knowing that God is with you every step of the way, guiding, sustaining, and empowering you to fulfill His purpose for your life. Trust in Him, for He is faithful to see you through.
