Prayer is Essential
“One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God.” — Luke 6:12
In this passage, we see Jesus withdrawing to a quiet place to pray. He spent the entire night listening to His Father so that He would know exactly what God had ordained for Him to do. Immediately afterward, Jesus chose the twelve disciples—a life-changing decision about who would walk in His footsteps, lead with compassion and love, and remain unwavering in the truth of God’s Word.
This reminds me of the prayer Jesus taught His disciples: “Give us this day our daily bread.” Each day, we are called to ask God for guidance. Scripture also instructs us to “seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33, ESV). No matter how big or small the decision, God tells us to seek His face.
I remember receiving a job announcement and being encouraged to apply. It would have been a significant promotion, perfectly aligned with my career path. I met every qualification, and even the director urged me to apply. Naturally, I went to God in prayer—thanking Him for the opportunity and asking how I should prepare. I gathered my materials, printed everything out, and laid it on the altar. But to my surprise, the Holy Spirit said, “This is not for you. Do not apply.”
I was devastated. I told God, “But I’m qualified, and I want this promotion!” Gently, He replied, “You may apply if you want. They will interview you, and they will offer you the job. But you are not to accept it.” That moment reminded me of Proverbs 16:9: “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” We must be willing to follow God’s path, even when it doesn’t align with our own desires.
In the end, I did not submit my application—though several members of senior management noticed and asked me to reconsider. Still, I knew God had already spoken through prayer, and my responsibility was to surrender to His will. Too often we act based on what seems right to us, then wonder why things fall apart. But Scripture reminds us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5–6). Everything that looks good is not always good for us.
Key Takeaways
Every decision—big or small—should be brought to God in prayer.
What appears good is not always God’s best.
Moving without God’s direction can lead to disappointment.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
Follow me at JCC Ministries TV: YouTube Channel
My Books Are Available Now: Amazon - Life’s Journey Volume 2 by Jacqueline Crooks