What if trust means taking action?
My recent Substack post explored how in evangelical culture, trusting God and taking action can be seen as opposing forces. We often pray and ask God to act on our behalf while also perceiving taking action ourselves as a lack of faith.
A classic example of this thinking is the person who wants God to introduce them to their future spouse but also won’t go on dates, sign up for dating apps, or allow their friends to set them up because “God will provide.”
But oftentimes, the way God provides is in partnership with our steps of faith. Throughout scripture, we see examples of God inviting people to take faithful action as an act of trust.
Even in the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000, we witness Jesus inviting people to give what they had. Through one boy’s generosity and faithful action, God provided for many. From these types of stories, we learn that action is a sacred show of trust.
But what are practical ways to live out trust in God? Below are suggestions for what it can look like to pair prayer with faithful action. While this list is by no means exhaustive, it can serve as a starting point for considering how to live from a place of trust.
If you’re praying for healing or provision for others:
Donate to an organization that’s doing the work you’re praying for (such as helping refugees, restoring towns after a natural disaster, and providing food for the hungry).
Volunteer for an organization providing tangible help for others, such as a nonprofit serving food to the unhoused population.
Show up with practical help—such as a meal, gift card, ride, or childcare—for someone you know is in need.
If you’re praying for wisdom:
Read trustworthy books or articles on the subject you’re seeking wisdom in.
Listen to a variety of voices and perspectives on the topic—not just voices that confirm what you already think.
Initiate conversations with people who have experience or expertise in that area—asking questions to deepen your understanding and listening to learn, rather than merely to respond.
If you’re praying for healing or provision for yourself:
Ask others for help. It’s easy to assume that because people are busy, they aren’t willing or able to help. While they may not have a large surplus of time or resources to spare, most people are happy to provide a meal or ride or listening ear when they can.
Go to therapy (and be willing to stick with it when it’s hard). Mental, emotional, and spiritual healing are complex matters that take time. Seek help from a professional, faithfully do the work, and be patient and gentle with yourself when healing feels hard.
Apply for that promotion (or go on a date). Take the first step of faith towards the change you’re praying for—and see how God meets you there.
While there are certainly areas of life beyond our control, in which our only options are to pray and trust, there are also many areas in which we can take action. Ask yourself what one small act of faith you can take today—and see how God shows up in that.
