I am involved with many situations where the one thing I know, the one thing that I can offer is “Let’s talk to God about it.”  I find myself getting worked up.

• They are depending on me.
• I need to give an answer.
• What if I don’t answer quickly enough.
• What if the ‘wrong’ thing happens.
• And I know that I should pray.
• But then what? What is the next step?
• Because what if God doesn’t answer?
• And how soon should I expect something recognizable?
• And what do I do in the meantime?
• And am I the only one that feels a little awkward after amen?

You know that feeling. I know you do. Because you ask me about it. All the time.

Here’s one answer.

1. Tell God your requests. Everything. Don’t worry about it. Tell him. Stand next to the ocean and holler. Sit in your car and cry. Sit in your office and pretend to stare at your screen.
2. And everything means “e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g.” Not just, “help me pass this exam.” but also “help me believe that you exist.” And “help me know what to say in this email (or post).”
3. And then, Paul says, “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Notice he doesn’t say, “And instantly you will get a pony.” He says, “There will be peace guarding your thoughts and desires.”
4. And then, in the time you were using to worry, do something. Look for noble things and think about them. What a role model has taught you? Do it. (Paul’s got more here).
5. And the God of peace will be with you.

Paul’s not saying, “ask and then do whatever you want and if God doesn’t answer, he’s not there.” He says, “live differently.”

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Here’s a video version of today’s post: What comes after amen.

Here’s a piece I wrote about where to start in Following Jesus.