I’m usually pretty good at completing tasks. I am also resourceful and can find alternative ways to get things done. If I can’t go through the front door I’ll go to the back, if I can’t get in that way I’ll climb through the window. When God wants me out of the way, to be still, or I am out of line, all avenues are on lockdown. I can’t maneuver or figure anything out, any smarts I have are null and void. Sometimes, doing nothing is the right thing to do.
God is always working on our behalf, but we can at times go ahead of Him. We may be trying to force an outcome. We may be altogether on the wrong path. The Holy Spirit is telling us in His loving voice to go sit down and don’t move until He tells us to. Take heed so that you can avoid harsh correction and frustration because you are trying in vain.
What to do while you’re doing nothing
In these moments of quietness first and foremost cling to the Bible. Read and study the Word of God for what it says. Claim those promises even though you may not have direction or a vision for your next step. Secondly, think about what God has told you to do that you are not doing and start doing them. Sometimes we are not moving forward because we have neglected something God has already told us to do. Of course, pray and let God know your request, go boldly to the throne. The Holy Spirit brought to my attention something that was lacking in my prayer life. I was not asking the Lord, I was telling Him everything wrong. Murmuring and complaining was the theme of my prayers. I was not giving Him thanks for what He had already accomplished in my life or for future accomplishments.
There are other things you can do while you are being still and waiting to hear from the Lord. Work on those projects that you have been putting off. Extend help to someone else. Start or involve yourself with a book club, Bible study, or prayer group. More importantly, continue doing those things He already called you to do to maintain your closeness with the Lord. Even though God may have you doing nothing in a particular area He wants you working and focused on another one.
Christian fellowship
I can’t emphasize enough the importance of Christian fellowship regardless of where you’re at in life. People tend to use the word Christian loosely. A Christian is a follower of Jesus Christ and one who believes in the death, burial, resurrection, and the completed inspired Word of God, the Bible. There are a lot of wonderful people that we can learn from but not everyone has a personal relationship with Jesus. There is a huge difference between being in a relationship with Jesus and being religious. There is no hope in a religion, but Jesus is hope and the creator of it.
Knowledge is everywhere and it’s a blessing to be able to glean from it. Being in relationships with people is extremely important. Just be aware of who you listen to because eloquence of speech does not always equal Bible truth. I must mention this on a side note. Just because a famous person or very influential person posts something on social media does not make it gospel. Whatever view or stance you take make sure you have the backing of the Bible.
Intimacy with God
Many times when we use the word intimacy people immediately think of sexual intercourse. We miss the mark on so many levels of a deeper connection with people and God when we think like that. It means closeness. Intimacy with God is a desire, hunger, and thirst to be in His presence. It’s craving His knowledge, wisdom, and understanding to be more like Him. Dying to self daily to be transformed into God’s image is more important than catering to the lust of the flesh. Sustain a heart of intimacy with God whether your life is in a state of activity or doing nothing is where He has you.
In conclusion
We have to train ourselves to not be afraid of those times God has us doing nothing in a certain area. He is always working in and through us to get us where He desires us to be and it’s for our good. This is not wasted time as long as we are remaining obedient to those things that are pleasing to Him. Direction and instruction are coming.
ACTION ITEM(S)
- Check your attitude. Be conscious of your thoughts and behavior. Frustration is real, don’t let that be your guide.
- Is there anything you are going ahead of God on or trying to force an outcome?
- Make a list of the things God has already told you to do that you have not done. Pray and ask how to begin to do them.
- Make a list of things that you can get involved in that will further the Gospel and you. This is not busywork it’s kingdom work.
So good and rich in truth! Thanks Carol!
Oh where do I start!? ❤️ I guess I will make my prayer list and ask God to show me. Conviction is good. I pray I am not a bumper sticker Christian , but a Bible speaking Christian! I am working on reading my Bible more and deepening my relationship with Christ. Always room to grow. Thank you for all these reminders and speaking truth!!!!
Ashley, I love what you said about not being a bumper sticker Christian, but a Bible speaking Christian. That should always be our goal. God will certainly answer your request to read more and deepen your relationship with Him. That is the most important relationship. Thank you for your continued support!
This is great!! Sometimes we do UNDERESTIMATE the power of doing nothing. It’s sooo easy to get caught up in doing what everyone else is doing. Thank for reminding us that It Is OK to do nothing at times.
Lisa, It is so important to follow the Lord and not the crowd. Thanks for your comment!