Soon after Moses led Israel out of bondage in Egypt, the people discovered that Pharaoh’s army was hot on their trail. Terrified, the Israelites began to pray to the Lord for help. Of course, that was an appropriate response (except for their fear). God soon answered by telling Moses, in effect, “Men, it’s time to quit praying and take action.” God says the same thing to us more often than we typically recognize. There comes a time for getting out of the prayer closet and getting on with what you’ve been praying about.

Take the Next Step

It isn’t always easy to know when to stop praying and charge ahead. How can we know when it’s time to take action? His Spirit, His Word, and our own sanctified common sense can help guide us. But praying as we go, we can take the first step and believe that God is with us and will guide us, redirecting our course where necessary. God is honored by a faith that risks obedience without guarantees. So make sure you’re not over-spiritualizing prayer as an excuse for a lack of action. At the same time recognize that prayer is the most important thing you can do.

Bottom Line

Learn to be sensitive to God’s promptings, and then prayerfully round up the courage to take appropriate action.