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I Don’t Know . . .

ByKatherine Wisniewski
I don't know...

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” James 1:5 (NIV)

Why must I reach the end of my rope before I utter the words, “I don’t know?” Amid trials, I overthink and attempt to outmaneuver the enemy’s attack until I reach overwhelm. And then, and only then, will I cry out. “God, help me! I don’t know.”

Maybe you’ve been there, too. 

  • I don’t know why this is happening.
  • I don’t know how to fix this or what to do.
  • I don’t know how to go on.

 Sometimes, the three most powerful words we can offer God are “I don’t know.” This prayer isn’t poetic or pretty, but it’s potent. Why? Admitting we do not know is submitting. We are surrendering our will, way, timing, and need to understand why. And we are laying everything in God’s capable hands. When we let go of what we cannot control, we place everything in the hands of the One who controls everything. 

There is power in submission to God:

  • “Submit to God and be at peace with him; in this way prosperity will come to you.”  – Job 22:21 (NIV)
  • “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
  • “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” – James 4:7 (NIV)

Submitting is hard. Going before the Lord without a specific outcome in mind is difficult. Having faith that God’s got us when all we can see, feel, and hear is the storm is brutal. But God’s word, His truth, tells us we can trust Him. 

Additionally, when we submit to God and say those three little words, “I don’t know,” God will give us wisdom and guidance. “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James 1:5, NIV). 

I don’t know about you, but sometimes I could use a little Godly wisdom and perspective: eyes to see what’s hidden, ears to hear encouragement and direction, a heart to feel God’s comfort and love, and a mind to understand that His great plans are so much better than mine. 

Sometimes, storms happen. Sometimes, they seem to go on forever, wave after wave of hardship and heartache. But God is bigger than any storm and wind the enemy can whip up. So, it’s okay if you don’t know where to step, stand, or even start. God knows. 

When we ask God for wisdom and submit our will and ways, He will give generously. I can’t promise God will calm the storm, but He will calm and guide us through it. He will help, hold, and give us wisdom and peace. 

So, friend, the next time you are overwhelmed with life and can’t even find the words to pray, try these simple ones. Dear God, “I don’t know.” 

Dear Heavenly Father, Sometimes I try so hard to fix, control, and survive the storms of life. Please forgive me for not trusting you more. Help me to say, “I don’t know.” Help me ask you for wisdom and trust that you give generously to those you love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Read More About Gaining Wisdom

Gaining Joy and Wisdom from Children

It’s Okay To Ask For Help

Read More Verses About Submitting to God

Submission in the Bible

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