A Prayer to Take a Step of Faith When You Feel Convicted
By Keri Eichberger
Bible Reading:
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is— his good, pleasing, and perfect will. - Romans 12:12
Sometimes the right thing to do is actually the hard thing to do. And personally, I don’t think I’ve experienced this in a more literal sense than in my parenting. Whether I’ve felt a nudge of conviction to say “no for now” to Snapchat, a questionable movie, or a certain social event, many times making the right move can be uncomfortable—on both ends—and also isn't always well received. Doing what’s best for my kids can even be a little or a lot painful. For them and for me. Because I love my children, and it hurts to see them hurt. But what I want more than their and my comfort, is what’s best for them. God’s best for them. So that they may receive the fullness of life only he offers. And not one of us receives that by conforming to the world. Though conforming can be the natural response of our sinful hearts. Which is why it’s important for spirit-led, truth-filled voices and actions to intervene and assist.
Have you ever felt a conviction to make some sort of move that went against the grain of the world? When you felt pretty sure you knew the right thing to do, the hard words that needed to be said, or the step that needed to be taken in order to interject truth into or over a situation? Maybe you’ve also felt this time and again with a child. Young, teenager, or even one out of your house with their own kids. Maybe you’ve found yourself in a predicament at work, or facing a challenge at church, or wrapped up in conflict in a relationship or your marriage. And possibly you’ve asked for God’s discernment and guidance and kept feeling like he was steering you to say something or do something. Yet if you’re being honest, you had some doubts, and following through felt too daunting.
I know how hard this can be. I really do. But Romans 12:12 reminds us. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is— his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Our minds will be transformed and renewed when we go to God. Each and every time we fill up with his Word and presence. And I have experienced the power of this practice and verse. As I have continued to look to and lean on the Lord in my moments of confusion, his word and presence have continued to speak truth over and through my thoughts. His way becomes more and more clear. And specific steps he wants me to take become more and more apparent. He helps me test and approve what his will is. And he gives me more confidence and more ease to act accordingly. You will gain this insight and assurance as you learn and lean on his word, too. You will become sure and certain of his calls and commands.
As you remain in the Lord, you can confidently take hold of his hand. You can take the step in faith that he is calling you to. And then step again. You can trust him. His way is always the best way. And his way can always be trusted. Whatever it is that is surrounding you, whatever it is tapping on your heart with conviction, I pray that you will continue to lean away from the ways of the world and lean into renewing your mind with the Lord. He will help you. He will hold you. With his faithful, good, and sovereign hands. Walk boldly with him and in him, and watch his good, good plan unveil and forever prevail.
Let’s pray:
Lord God, You are the way. Your way is perfect for my life and all of those I love. Though sometimes it is hard and uncomfortable to do the right thing, help me not to conform to this world. But instead, help me to look to you and make choices that are part of your best plan. Renew and convict my mind of the steps you would have me take, and give me confidence to walk forward boldly with you. Thank you for guiding me as I learn your word and lean into your presence. Thank you for going before me and paving the way toward your will. Your good, pleasing, and perfect will. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/kieferpix
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