When you need direction, God isn’t asking for vague wishes—He’s inviting faithful prayer with obedient steps. Dr. Michael Youssef unpacks the Bible’s first recorded prayer to show how specific requests and unconditional obedience position you to recognize God’s answer.
“What should I do next?” is one of the most common questions believers bring to God—and in today’s MY Devotional, Dr. Michael Youssef takes you to Genesis 24, where Scripture records the first prayer offered in the same way we pray today.
Abraham’s trusted servant Eliezer is sent on a mission that will shape the covenant line: find a wife for Isaac. Along the journey, he stops and prays a clear, specific prayer for guidance (Genesis 24:12–14)—and God answers before he finishes praying (Genesis 24:15). Dr. Youssef highlights why this matters for your decision-making:
The takeaway is simple and challenging: faithful prayer + unconditional obedience = answered prayer. If you’re seeking guidance for a major decision, this episode will help you pray with clarity, walk with confidence, and discern God’s direction as He leads.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that I can bring my specific requests to You and trust that You hear and answer them in Your perfect wisdom and timing. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
“Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you” (Psalm 9:10).
*This devotional is adapted from Life-Changing Prayers by Michael Youssef © 2018. Published by Baker Books, Grand Rapids, MI. Used by permission.
Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef’s sermon Life-Changing Prayers, Part 2: LISTEN NOW