Relationships require communication. Even the best relationships will go south quickly if the parties involved never talk to one another. What many Christian guys forget is that their relationship with God works the same way. We’ve got to talk with our heavenly Father. We need to be seeking God’s wisdom each day of our lives.

Of course, prayer is the primary tool He’s provided to keep that line of communication open. While our prayers should include elements like praise and adoration, He also wants us to spend time praying for clarity in decisions we face and for help in problems that need a solution.

Knowing where to start with Prayer

Let’s be honest: Praying is hard. We know we need to do it. And, for the most part, we know how to do it. For some reason, though, we just struggle with this spiritual discipline. 

Recently, I’ve been digging into the practice of praying Scripture back to God. Sometimes, I use actual words from the Bible as I pray for clarity in decisions. Other times, I paraphrase a thought or idea that God lays on my heart as I seek His wisdom. 

I don’t know that it’s made prayer easier, but it has provided a great place to start conversations with God. One of my favorite passages is an obvious choice: Jesus’s Model Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13. On one hand, Jesus gave this to His followers as a template for prayer. On the other hand, it includes so many great elements that I can build on as I voice my own prayers to God—including a challenge to trust God’s direction in life.

As you read through a passage, ask yourself two questions: What does it tell me about God (or Jesus)? and How does He want me to respond to what He has shown me? Reflecting on those two questions and then praying it back to God can help you move in the right direction and guide you in seeking God’s wisdom each day.

Powerful Prayers from Scripture

Early in James’s biblical letter, he told his readers where to go when seeking God’s wisdom: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God—​who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly—and it will be given to him (James 1:5). So, when we’re praying for clarity for decisions, the best thing we can do is turn to God.

And the best way to connect with God’s direction is to dig into His Word. As mentioned, the Bible is a great source for prayer, especially when we need God’s wisdom and guidance. Here are five Scriptures you can use as the foundation for your prayers for God’s wisdom.

1. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

The greatest hindrance to finding God’s wisdom through prayer is sin. Whether you need to accept Jesus’s offer of salvation for the first time or you’re struggling with sin as a Christ follower, a prayer of repentance (turning from sin and turning to God) and for forgiveness should be your first step. Thankfully, just as He is faithful to give us wisdom when we ask (James 1:5), God is faithful to forgive when we confess our sin to Him.

2. “He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30)

This little statement was the heartbeat of John the Baptist’s life. He had been called by God to point people to the Messiah. When Jesus began His public ministry, John knew he needed to take a step back and let the Savior shine. As we pray for clarity in decisions, we need to step back and let Jesus lead. Our plans and agendas need to decrease so His plans and agendas can become our priority.

3. “I said: Here I am. Send me.” (Isaiah 6:8)

God has a plan for your life. In fact, the Bible teaches that He has a purpose for each person from the day they are conceived (Jeremiah 1:5). But God’s plan only works if you’re willing to submit yourself to Him and do what He says. We said that half of praying Scripture is about discovering what God reveals about Himself. The other half is acting on it. When it comes to seeking God’s wisdom, obedience is the key.

4. “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart be courageous. Wait for the Lord.” (Psalm 27:14)

The Bible actually has a lot to say about the benefits of patience and waiting on the Lord. (For a few examples, see Psalm 37:7; 40:1; 130:5-6; Isaiah 40:31; Habakkuk 2:3; James 5:7-8). Waiting is important because waiting requires faith in God, trusting His direction. We live in a culture dominated by ticking clocks. Patience is still a virtue because it’s a rare commodity. But God tells us to pray and to wait on His timing, which is always perfect.

5. “Not my will, but yours, be done.” (Luke 22:42)

This is the hardest prayer to utter as we’re seeking clarity in decisions. On the night before He was crucified, Jesus prayed about the future. He knew the plan, and He was committed to following the Father’s guidance. He put God’s mission—and humanity’s salvation—above His own comfort and desires. As we’re praying for God’s wisdom, He may call us to trust Him with difficult choices or painful sacrifices. When He does, we have to remember that He is working for our good and His glory. That means His will is what matters most.

Building a Team

These verses—and others that God reveals as you study His Word—can serve as a great springboard to praying for clarity for decisions and trusting God’s direction. But the Christian life is a team sport. We are called the body of Christ, and each part of the body needs the others to stay healthy (Romans 12:4-5; 1 Corinthians 12:12).

Since each believer has been gifted to bless the body, it makes sense to lean into the ministry of others. Don’t feel like you need to carry the burden alone. Surround yourself with a solid and trustworthy group of men who can pray with you as you’re seeking God’s wisdom.

Jesus said, “If two of you on earth agree about any matter that you pray for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven” (Matthew 18:19). Your prayers for clarity are powerful, but the impact of others praying with you can make a huge difference as you seek God’s guidance for your life.