What’s Next, Lord? A Story of Trust, Waiting, and Calling

Have you ever found yourself staring up at the sky, hands thrown in the air, asking, “God, what’s next for me?” Maybe you’ve been there—caught between where you’ve been and where you feel you’re supposed to go. It’s that peculiar space where your soul feels restless, your mind runs in circles, and you wonder if God misplaced the map to your life.

I’ve been there too, my friend. It’s that “in-between” season, like sitting in a waiting room where the magazines are outdated and the clock seems to tick slower than ever. You’ve prayed, you’ve waited, and maybe, just maybe, you’ve even shouted, “God, could You just give me a sign already?”

There’s No Such Thing as Coincidence

Before we go any further, let’s clear something up: there is no such thing as coincidence. Not in God’s world. The people you meet, the situations you face, the timing of events in your life—they’re not random. They’re part of God’s sovereign plan.

Have you ever had someone come into your life at just the right moment? Maybe it was a friend who offered encouragement when you were down, a stranger who shared a word of wisdom, or even a pastor whose sermon felt like it was written just for you. That’s not chance; that’s God.

God sends people into our lives for a reason. Sometimes they’re there to teach us, sometimes to challenge us, and sometimes to give us the push we need to get closer to Him. Proverbs 16:9 says,

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” 

You’re not wandering aimlessly. Every step you take is within God’s sovereign plan, and the people you meet along the way are part of His strategy to shape you, guide you, and remind you of His presence.

So, the next time you think, “Wow, what are the odds?” remember this: with God, there are no odds—only His perfect will.

Praying for Yourself: Is It Selfish?

One of the first questions that pops up in these moments is, “Can I pray for myself? Is that selfish?” Let me tell you something that might surprise you: not only is it okay to pray for yourself, but God wants you to.

Think of it this way. If your car breaks down on the side of the road, would you spend your time praying for everyone else’s car to work fine while ignoring your own? Of course not. You’d call for help, fix what’s broken, and get back on the road.

The same is true for your soul. Jesus, in His most vulnerable moment in the Garden of Gethsemane, prayed for Himself:

“Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me.” (Matthew 26:39)

He wasn’t being selfish. He was being honest. And even in that raw moment, He submitted to God’s will.

Praying for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Healing, strength, and guidance are not just for others. They’re for you, too. When you’re restored, you’re better equipped to carry out God’s plans for your life and to bless others along the way.

God, What’s Your Plan for Me?

Ah, the age-old question: “What’s God’s plan for my life?”

We want a grand reveal, don’t we? Maybe a burning bush moment or a voice thundering from heaven. But God doesn’t usually work that way. Instead, He gives us clues—glimpses into His purpose for us.

Start with what you’re passionate about. What makes your heart come alive? What are you naturally good at? Those aren’t accidents; they’re gifts from God, tools for the purpose He’s placed on your life.

Then, pay attention to the doors He opens and closes. Have you ever tried forcing your way through a locked door? It’s exhausting and, frankly, pointless. Trust that God knows which doors lead to your destiny.

Finally, stay anchored in His Word. God’s plans for you will never contradict Scripture. If you feel “called” to something that doesn’t line up with His Word, that’s not His plan—it’s a distraction.

Here’s the truth: God often gives us just enough light for the next step. It’s like driving at night with your headlights on. You can’t see the whole road, but you can see enough to keep moving forward.

God, Can You Give Me a Sign?

How many times have you prayed, “God, just give me a sign!” Maybe you’ve even tried to bargain a little: “Lord, if the next person who texts me uses the word ‘destiny,’ I’ll know it’s You!”

God does give signs, but not always the way we expect. Remember Gideon in the Bible? He asked for a sign, and God delivered—twice. But signs are often confirmation, not the foundation of our faith.

Sometimes, we’re so busy looking for a lightning bolt that we miss the gentle whisper of God’s voice. He speaks through His Word, through wise counsel, and through the quiet nudges in your spirit. Don’t miss those moments waiting for something flashy.

The Waiting Isn’t Wasted

Let’s talk about waiting, because it’s hard, isn’t it? Waiting can feel like God hit the pause button on your life. But here’s the thing: the waiting isn’t wasted.

God uses those in-between seasons to prepare you for what’s next. While you wait, pray like your life depends on it—because it does. Prayer isn’t just about asking for things; it’s about aligning your heart with God’s.

And don’t just sit there twiddling your thumbs. Prepare for the new thing God is calling you to. If you feel led to a new career, start learning the skills you’ll need. If you sense a call to ministry, dive into His Word. Faith without action is dead, but faith with preparation? That’s powerful.

Most importantly, trust the process. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us,

“But those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” 

God is renewing you in the waiting. He’s strengthening you for the journey ahead.

God’s Timing Is Perfect

Here’s the beauty of it all: God’s timing is perfect. Think of Joseph in the Bible. He went from being a favorite son to a pit, from a pit to a prison, and finally from a prison to a palace. Every step was part of God’s plan to save a nation.

You might feel like you’re in the pit or stuck in a season that feels like a prison. But hold on—God is preparing you for the palace.

Closing Encouragement

If you’re in a season of searching, wondering what’s next, let me remind you: God sees you. He hears you. And He’s already at work in your life.

Pray boldly for healing, for direction, for clarity. Trust that God’s plans for you are good, even if you can’t see them yet. And while you’re waiting, keep your eyes on Jesus. He’s not just the author of your faith—He’s the finisher of it.

And remember, the people God places in your path are part of His plan. There’s no such thing as coincidence—only His sovereignty.

So, if you’re asking, “God, what’s next for me?” don’t be afraid to take it to Him. He loves your questions. And as you wait, He’s working behind the scenes, crafting a plan more beautiful than you could ever imagine.

Amen.