1 Samuel 10:7 (ESV) -- Now when these signs meet you, do what your hand finds to do, for God is with you.

There is such a thing as “paralysis by analysis.” This term refers to people who overanalyze things into oblivion. They weigh every scenario that could happen—which by itself isn’t bad—but then they become overwhelmed by the amount of information and scenarios in front of them. The analyzing of the situation didn’t help them make a decision; it prevented them from making a decision. 

Christians can do this when it comes to figuring out what direction in life to take. We overanalyze what career to pick, where to live, who that “special someone” might be, and so on. We make the will of God into a needle-in-the-haystack situation that keeps us from ever taking action in fear we’re stepping outside of God’s will. 

Our passage today is a helpful remedy against this, and a reminder that sometimes the best decision is to act. In this passage, we read, “Now when these signs meet you, do what your hand finds to do, for God is with you.” Samuel is speaking to Saul. Saul is going to be Israel’s king. Samuel the prophet tells him there will be certain signs that will happen to him. Once those things happen, he is to take action and know that God is with him. This doesn’t mean to act sinfully. He can’t set his heart against God. But the point is that he doesn’t need to wait around wondering what he is to do. He should seek God with his life, and do whatever his hand finds to do. God is with him.

I believe this passage is a reminder that there is a time for waiting and watching, to see what God may reveal. But Christians make this too mystical and often miss out on God’s moving in powerful ways because they refuse to act. Our goal should be to seek God each day, submitting ourselves to Him. We give Him our lives, fight against sin, and obey His Word. As we do those things, with a sincere heart, we should act on opportunities in front of us. We don’t always need to wait around asking God what to do. Sometimes we need to take action and just do something. What do you need to take action on today?

Reflection & Journal:
- Why does this verse surprise us when we consider how most Christians seek God’s will?
- What are the conditions for taking action? What things should we be watching for?
- How does this passage help you to think about actions and opportunities you should take?

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