Session 4
How to get your next big thing
From 1 Samuel: A 6-Week Devotional
High school. College. Marriage. Babies. Buying a house. The big promotion with a raise. What is your next big thing?
Sometimes, we wonder why God doesn’t seem to be answering our prayers for more—more instruction, more leadership, more responsibility, more romance—and instead of patiently waiting and seeking more of Him, we do what we think is best.
Acting out of desperation almost always leads us to sin.
Acting out of desperation almost always leads us to sin.
Intimidated by the size of the Philistine army, Saul asked the Lord for help. When Saul didn’t get an answer, he consulted a medium—something God strictly forbids (Deuteronomy 18:9-14). God didn’t answer Saul’s appeals for help, because, as Samuel points out, Saul had not been obedient with what God had already given him (1 Samuel 28:16-19). God calls us to be faithful with what we have, and to steward it well, before He can trust us with more (Luke 16:10).
When we wonder why God doesn’t seem to be answering our prayers, it’s tempting to give into desperation and take matters into our own hands, like Saul did. But, following Jesus happens one step at a time. God is good, and His timing and ways—which are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:9)—are perfect.
Instead of rushing to get to the next big thing, let’s stop for a minute and remember that being obedient in the little things will bring us to the big things God places in our hearts. Let’s not miss what God has for us right now trying to get to our next big thing.
Reflect:
- Can you think of a time when you tried to take matters into your own hands when God didn’t answer you, or answer the way you wanted? What was the outcome?
- What is the last next step God gave you? Have you done it?
- What is one way you can be obedient to what God has already called you to while you are waiting to go where He is taking you?
If you need help figuring out your next step, start here, or visit the Next Steps Area at your campus on Sunday.