God, what do I do? Finding confidence in uncertain times | with Katie Reid | Episode 399

Stephanie Rousselle welcomes back author and speaker Katie Reid. They dive into practical faith lessons rooted in Katie’s Bible study, God, What Do I Do?, which explores the first five chapters of Judges—a book that surprisingly offers deep insights for navigating life’s uncertainties.

Listen to the conversation on the Gospel Spice Podcast: https://www.podcastics.com/episode/367785/link/ 

Watch the conversation on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 

Transitions—graduations, moves, empty nesting—often prompt us to ask, “God, what do I do?” Katie Reid begins with the importance of remembering God’s past faithfulness. Just as God’s people in Scripture set up literal memorial stones to help future generations recall His mighty works, we’re called to do the same in our own way. When facing the unknown, look back: Has God ever provided when you couldn’t see the way forward? Remembering builds faith for the present and the future. Katie offers a practical tip: Share stories of God’s provision with your family or community. This strengthens everyone’s faith and creates a culture of expectation for God’s continued faithfulness.

A common misconception is that God’s rules are restrictive. However, the Book of Judges and Katie’s personal example remind us that God’s guidance is meant for our protection and ultimate freedom. Just as parents warn children out of love, God sets boundaries to spare us unnecessary pain and lead us to fuller life. Katie invites us: Consider a time you resisted God’s leading, only to discover later that His way was truly for your good.

In Judges 1, the Israelites start out strong in obeying God, but falter when they encounter intimidating obstacles (“iron chariots”). Katie shares from her own experience—facing a daunting move to Florida without knowing all the details—that sometimes God asks us to walk forward in faith before providing the full picture. Partial obedience or giving in to intimidation can rob us of experiencing God’s best. Katie suggests, Ask yourself: What are your “iron chariots”—those fears or obstacles tempting you to stop short? Where might God be inviting you to complete, not just partial, obedience?

Prayer is our lifeline, especially in confusing times. The Israelites often forgot to inquire of the Lord, leading to trouble. Katie urges that “SOS prayers” (“God, help!”) are not only acceptable, but powerful. Lean into God honestly—He delights in our dependence, not our performance. So, in moments of overwhelm, pause and simply pray. No fancy words needed. Dependence is what God desires.

Both obedience and disobedience set ripples in motion for generations. Testifying—sharing what God has done—points others to His ongoing goodness. Judges 5 models this with a “testimony song,” celebrating God’s victories. Here’s an idea: Write down or verbally share a recent “God moment” with a friend or family member.

The Book of Judges isn’t just a cautionary tale; it’s an invitation to deeper trust and practical obedience. Remember what God has done, trust His commands, move forward in faith—even without all the answers—and don’t be afraid to cry out honestly in prayer. Celebrate small wins, and share what God is doing. This is how uncertain times become seasons of spiritual growth and fresh clarity. Throughout the study, Katie invites us to apply these lessons in our transitions, decisions, and daily walk, trusting that God leads, remembers, and is always faithful.

Stephanie mentions the Gospel Spice course “In the Footsteps of Jesus” which take you right into First-Century Israel to experience Jesus like never before. More here: https://www.gospelspice.com/footsteps - make sure to sign up to receive the first lesson for free!

MORE ABOUT KATIE REID

Katie M. Reid is a Bible teacher, author, and podcaster. Trained in education, Katie teaches around her kitchen table, in the classroom, and around the country. She cohosts The Martha + Mary Show and runs the Martha + Mary Show Sisterhood group on Facebook. Katie is a pastor's wife and worship leader. Following Jesus, marrying her husband, and being a mom to five are the best decisions she's made.

Find Katie at http://katiemreid.com/

MORE ABOUT THE BIBLE STUDY “GOD, WHAT DO I DO?”

Uncertainty about the future--even the very next step--can keep you from making important decisions and cause you to second-guess every decision you do make. You may feel pressured by others to act before you're ready. You just want to be sure that each choice is the right one. But how do you know? And what if you're wrong?

Drawing from the story of the Israelites during the time of Deborah and other early judges, Bible teacher Katie M. Reid shows you how to move forward in times of transition and trial when you don't know what to do and God's voice seems silent. Through timeless truths mined from Scripture, personal stories, and accessible study questions, you'll learn six simple guiding principles to help you make good decisions with confidence and clear-headed focus.

As you journey through this study, you'll find a sense of peace in decision-making you never thought possible--even when the stakes are high and life feels overwhelming.