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What Does God Have Planned for Me Next?: Experience all of it. Miss none of it.
ECPA BESTSELLER • Discover God’s next step for your life with this practical, no-nonsense guide from Red Rocks Church Teaching Pastor Doug Wekenman.
“The conversations I have most with people, both in and outside the church, are about the will of God for their lives. This book tackles that age-old question with grace, wisdom, humor, and heart!”—Chad Bruegman, senior pastor of River Pointe and West End Church
Uncertainty about the future can be paralyzing. From career moves to relationships, sobriety to calling, the biggest question pressing on so many hearts is What does God have planned for me next? Doug Wekenman, teaching pastor at Red Rocks Austin Church, has spent fifteen years walking people through life’s biggest decisions. In this powerful and practical guide, he unpacks everything he’s learned about hearing from God and stepping boldly into his plans.
With wisdom, clarity, and humor, this book breaks down the process of understanding God’s ways, preparing for his direction, and making big decisions with confidence. Whether discerning a next step, struggling to trust the process, or simply longing for assurance that God is near, these pages offer the insight and encouragement needed to move forward.
God’s will isn’t meant to be a mystery. What Does God Have Planned for Me Next? is a roadmap to living with focus, obedience, and faith—no more hesitation, no more fear. The next step is waiting. Step into it.
“The conversations I have most with people, both in and outside the church, are about the will of God for their lives. This book tackles that age-old question with grace, wisdom, humor, and heart!”—Chad Bruegman, senior pastor of River Pointe and West End Church
Uncertainty about the future can be paralyzing. From career moves to relationships, sobriety to calling, the biggest question pressing on so many hearts is What does God have planned for me next? Doug Wekenman, teaching pastor at Red Rocks Austin Church, has spent fifteen years walking people through life’s biggest decisions. In this powerful and practical guide, he unpacks everything he’s learned about hearing from God and stepping boldly into his plans.
With wisdom, clarity, and humor, this book breaks down the process of understanding God’s ways, preparing for his direction, and making big decisions with confidence. Whether discerning a next step, struggling to trust the process, or simply longing for assurance that God is near, these pages offer the insight and encouragement needed to move forward.
God’s will isn’t meant to be a mystery. What Does God Have Planned for Me Next? is a roadmap to living with focus, obedience, and faith—no more hesitation, no more fear. The next step is waiting. Step into it.
272 pages, Hardcover
Published August 18, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
August 24, 2026
If you are seeking God’s direction, this book is a humorous and encouraging read. It won’t give you the specific answer you are seeking - but I’m sure you already know that you can’t find that answer in a book. Instead, it shows you how to get to know God better so you can discern his will and hear his still, small voice more clearly. I like the author’s honesty as he shares stories from his life as well as some hard-hitting truths we need to hear. Overall, this is an uplifting book that will make you smile while gently directing you closer God.
I received a preview copy from NetGalley.
I received a preview copy from NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Wekenman guides us through some biblical examples of God’s guidance and many personal examples from his own life and some others. The overall tone is positive and hopeful. As it should be with regard to God wanting to be heard, and He is speaking but we haven’t learned to listen. And we may not have learned to wait. We want an instant answer, like a Google search or ChapGPT query. But it doesn’t work that way. Wekenman shows us how God speaks, and some about how we should respond, sometimes by doing, sometimes by waiting.
While Wekenman starts the book with one of the most hopeful and cited verses—Jeremiah 29.11: “For I know the plans I have for you…plans to prosper….plans to give you hope and a future.”—he doesn’t explain the full context. He says we don’t understand the context nor fully grasp what it al means: it’s written to a people in exile, not living in their homeland. Wekenman doesn’t explain that the verse is not a first-class ticket home. He doesn’t explain the verse uses the plural “you” and therefore means there are plans for the people as a whole, not for any individual. He doesn’t explain that the exiles are going to be in a foreign land—to which they were taken as prisoners—and are advised to settle down for the duration, get married, have kids and grandkids, join the PTA, the Chamber of Commerce and help your captives prosper. For as they prosper, your group will prosper also.
The storm does not stop, when Peter gets out of the boat. No one dies when Paul is sailing to Rome, but the boat crashes and they (you) have to put some effort into it by swimming ashore. So while the tone of this book is hopeful and positive, it doesn’t quite balance the sunshine and floods of life. The rainstorms are mentioned but glossed over. The rainstorms are real and may persist. Read the end of Hebrews 11 and understand saints—of whom the world was not worthy—did not experience a glorious outcome.
We, especially in America, take “you” as the singular, second person pronoun as opposed to the plural second persons pronoun. This is important to remember when you read Wekenman’s excellent explanation about determinism/predestination and free will. We tend to talk about these things as they relate to an individual, not to a tribe or even as it relates to a pre-determined plan of God’s that we are invited to join, and can opt out if we want.
We also ignore how we don’t listen to anyone, let alone God. We pretend to listen—most often on Sunday mornings when we can’t recall much of the sermons. We selectively listen by hearing only what we want to hear and not the whole thing. If we’re good, we attentively listen understanding the whole message we hear in our prayer time, when we read the Bible, when we hear others share what they’ve learned from God and maybe give us prophetic advice. Ideally, we empathetically listen so that we not only understand the words, the text but the emotions behind them, what makes God’s heart sing.
For example, many people read the last chapters of Job when God appears to speak from a whirlwind as if God is angry. But the very last chapter endorses what Job has said, and God asserts that He is angry with the three friends. So if God is only angry with the three friends, what emotion do we put to God’s words in the penultimate chapters. I think God’s words again are meant to encourage Job to build him up: Job may not be able to create mountains, move tides, run as fast as a horse, but he is still God’s image-bearer and therefore much loved.
Yes, we are much loved by God. Does it matter which job you take, where you live, whom you marry…or is God more interested in the character you exhibit in your job, your marriage, your neighborhood? I really doubt he cares if you buy that candy bar or not. Wekenman discusses this but leaves an overall impression that God cares about all the details of your routine.
This is an easy read and may be helpful for some. If you’re struggling to think about what God wants you to do next, this book might help give you peace of soul to persist. But deeper questions should be uncovered in your journey too.
I’m appreciative of the publisher for providing an advanced copy.
While Wekenman starts the book with one of the most hopeful and cited verses—Jeremiah 29.11: “For I know the plans I have for you…plans to prosper….plans to give you hope and a future.”—he doesn’t explain the full context. He says we don’t understand the context nor fully grasp what it al means: it’s written to a people in exile, not living in their homeland. Wekenman doesn’t explain that the verse is not a first-class ticket home. He doesn’t explain the verse uses the plural “you” and therefore means there are plans for the people as a whole, not for any individual. He doesn’t explain that the exiles are going to be in a foreign land—to which they were taken as prisoners—and are advised to settle down for the duration, get married, have kids and grandkids, join the PTA, the Chamber of Commerce and help your captives prosper. For as they prosper, your group will prosper also.
The storm does not stop, when Peter gets out of the boat. No one dies when Paul is sailing to Rome, but the boat crashes and they (you) have to put some effort into it by swimming ashore. So while the tone of this book is hopeful and positive, it doesn’t quite balance the sunshine and floods of life. The rainstorms are mentioned but glossed over. The rainstorms are real and may persist. Read the end of Hebrews 11 and understand saints—of whom the world was not worthy—did not experience a glorious outcome.
We, especially in America, take “you” as the singular, second person pronoun as opposed to the plural second persons pronoun. This is important to remember when you read Wekenman’s excellent explanation about determinism/predestination and free will. We tend to talk about these things as they relate to an individual, not to a tribe or even as it relates to a pre-determined plan of God’s that we are invited to join, and can opt out if we want.
We also ignore how we don’t listen to anyone, let alone God. We pretend to listen—most often on Sunday mornings when we can’t recall much of the sermons. We selectively listen by hearing only what we want to hear and not the whole thing. If we’re good, we attentively listen understanding the whole message we hear in our prayer time, when we read the Bible, when we hear others share what they’ve learned from God and maybe give us prophetic advice. Ideally, we empathetically listen so that we not only understand the words, the text but the emotions behind them, what makes God’s heart sing.
For example, many people read the last chapters of Job when God appears to speak from a whirlwind as if God is angry. But the very last chapter endorses what Job has said, and God asserts that He is angry with the three friends. So if God is only angry with the three friends, what emotion do we put to God’s words in the penultimate chapters. I think God’s words again are meant to encourage Job to build him up: Job may not be able to create mountains, move tides, run as fast as a horse, but he is still God’s image-bearer and therefore much loved.
Yes, we are much loved by God. Does it matter which job you take, where you live, whom you marry…or is God more interested in the character you exhibit in your job, your marriage, your neighborhood? I really doubt he cares if you buy that candy bar or not. Wekenman discusses this but leaves an overall impression that God cares about all the details of your routine.
This is an easy read and may be helpful for some. If you’re struggling to think about what God wants you to do next, this book might help give you peace of soul to persist. But deeper questions should be uncovered in your journey too.
I’m appreciative of the publisher for providing an advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you @prhchristian @prhaudio for the books! #PRHAudioPartner
How do I get ready for God’s plan? How do I hear God? How do I make a big decision? What does God have planned for me now? Through these guiding questions, Pastor Doug walks (primarily) young adults through discerning His will for their lives through biblical examples and personal anecdotes. With self-deprecating preacher humor, he walks through how God is giving you all the direction you need for your future by giving you all the direction you need for right now.
Easy to breeze through, I love how Pastor Doug takes complex questions + biblical concepts and makes them feel digestible: a) because he has the gift of teaching, b) because he’s experienced it. His relatability is his greatest strength, and I know young adults will benefit from his example and wisdom.
There were parts where the theology got a little in the weeds—not in its complexity, but in its contrast. I admire the desire to hold both God’s sovereignty and free will in both hands; however, it came across as not wanting to step on any thorns in the overgrown discussion.
I listened to a few chapters and think the audiobook is definitely the way to go! He narrates it himself, and you can immediately feel the pastoral warmth of his communication style.
Perfect for you if you like:
Books about trusting God with you future
Conversations about calling and purpose
Encouragement from someone who’s been there
Similar:
The Next Right Thing by Emily P. Freeman
Garden City by John Mark Comer
Just Do Something by Kevin DeYoung
How do I get ready for God’s plan? How do I hear God? How do I make a big decision? What does God have planned for me now? Through these guiding questions, Pastor Doug walks (primarily) young adults through discerning His will for their lives through biblical examples and personal anecdotes. With self-deprecating preacher humor, he walks through how God is giving you all the direction you need for your future by giving you all the direction you need for right now.
Easy to breeze through, I love how Pastor Doug takes complex questions + biblical concepts and makes them feel digestible: a) because he has the gift of teaching, b) because he’s experienced it. His relatability is his greatest strength, and I know young adults will benefit from his example and wisdom.
There were parts where the theology got a little in the weeds—not in its complexity, but in its contrast. I admire the desire to hold both God’s sovereignty and free will in both hands; however, it came across as not wanting to step on any thorns in the overgrown discussion.
I listened to a few chapters and think the audiobook is definitely the way to go! He narrates it himself, and you can immediately feel the pastoral warmth of his communication style.
Perfect for you if you like:
Books about trusting God with you future
Conversations about calling and purpose
Encouragement from someone who’s been there
Similar:
The Next Right Thing by Emily P. Freeman
Garden City by John Mark Comer
Just Do Something by Kevin DeYoung
August 28, 2026
It's practical in a way I didn't expect. No fog, no formula, no pep talk that falls apart the second real life hits. Doug just walks you through how to actually hear from God and take the next step, whether that step is a career move, a relationship, a calling, or getting sober. He has spent years sitting across from people in the middle of those exact decisions, and it shows on every page.
What got me most was how it reshuffled my priorities before I even thought to brace for it. Things I'd pushed to the bottom of the list turned out to be what God kept setting in front of me, and things I hadn't thought to wrestle with, Doug named out loud so I could finally deal with them.
For me, this one is personal. As someone who fought his way through addiction after college, I know that paralyzing kind of uncertainty, and I know what it is worth to be told God still has something good waiting up ahead. This book tells you that, and then it hands you the map.
Read it. The next step really is waiting.
What got me most was how it reshuffled my priorities before I even thought to brace for it. Things I'd pushed to the bottom of the list turned out to be what God kept setting in front of me, and things I hadn't thought to wrestle with, Doug named out loud so I could finally deal with them.
For me, this one is personal. As someone who fought his way through addiction after college, I know that paralyzing kind of uncertainty, and I know what it is worth to be told God still has something good waiting up ahead. This book tells you that, and then it hands you the map.
Read it. The next step really is waiting.
September 8, 2026
I gave it a 3 star rating because this feels like a copy and paste of many other "hopeful" but empty Christian books. I read it because it was recommend to me by a close friend, but I don't think I'd recommend it to others.
The whole vibe of the book is really positive and hopeful. Wekenman's main point is that God is speaking, but we just haven't learned how to listen or wait.
He tackles the question of whether God is more invested in our specific life choices (who to marry, where to work, etc) or the character we display within them. He leans heavily toward the idea that God cares about every detail of our daily routine, though I personally doubt the Almighty is sweating our minor, everyday purchases.
Ultimately, this is an easy read that offers genuine comfort for anyone anxious about their next steps. While it skips over deeper theological complexities, it provides the peace of soul needed to persist in your journey. Just know that if you're looking to dig into really deep, heavy theological questions, you'll need to look elsewhere.
The whole vibe of the book is really positive and hopeful. Wekenman's main point is that God is speaking, but we just haven't learned how to listen or wait.
He tackles the question of whether God is more invested in our specific life choices (who to marry, where to work, etc) or the character we display within them. He leans heavily toward the idea that God cares about every detail of our daily routine, though I personally doubt the Almighty is sweating our minor, everyday purchases.
Ultimately, this is an easy read that offers genuine comfort for anyone anxious about their next steps. While it skips over deeper theological complexities, it provides the peace of soul needed to persist in your journey. Just know that if you're looking to dig into really deep, heavy theological questions, you'll need to look elsewhere.
September 25, 2026
What Does God Have Planned for Me Next? is the kind of book that feels especially helpful when you’re stuck in that uncomfortable space of knowing something needs to change but having no idea what comes next. I liked that Doug Wekenman doesn’t make discerning God’s will feel overly complicated or mystical. His approach to big decisions—whether it’s career, relationships, sobriety, or figuring out your calling—is practical and grounded, while still keeping faith at the center.
What I appreciated most was the reminder that uncertainty doesn’t mean God is absent or that you’re making the wrong choice. The emphasis on preparing yourself, listening for direction, and actually being willing to move when the next step becomes clear really resonated with me. There’s plenty of encouragement here without it feeling like empty reassurance, and Wekenman’s humor keeps it from becoming too heavy. A really accessible book for anyone who feels stuck, afraid of making the wrong decision, or simply wants to trust God more with what comes next.
What I appreciated most was the reminder that uncertainty doesn’t mean God is absent or that you’re making the wrong choice. The emphasis on preparing yourself, listening for direction, and actually being willing to move when the next step becomes clear really resonated with me. There’s plenty of encouragement here without it feeling like empty reassurance, and Wekenman’s humor keeps it from becoming too heavy. A really accessible book for anyone who feels stuck, afraid of making the wrong decision, or simply wants to trust God more with what comes next.
August 24, 2026
I really enjoyed What Does God Have Planned for Me Next? The Biblical references throughout the book made so much sense and gave a strong foundation for the ideas being shared. I also loved how the book keeps bringing everything back to God and His Word.
One thing I really appreciated is that the book doesn’t try to give a simple answer to the question, “What does God have planned for me next?” Instead, it consistently points the reader toward a relationship with God. I found that to be both encouraging and refreshing.
The flow of the book is smooth, and the stories and examples made it easy to connect with. I laughed a lot! I also appreciated the author’s humility and vulnerability in sharing his testimony. His willingness to be honest about his own flaws and experiences made the book feel very relatable.
Overall, it’s an encouraging, thoughtful, and easy-to-read book that points readers back to what matters most: knowing God and trusting Him with what comes next.
One thing I really appreciated is that the book doesn’t try to give a simple answer to the question, “What does God have planned for me next?” Instead, it consistently points the reader toward a relationship with God. I found that to be both encouraging and refreshing.
The flow of the book is smooth, and the stories and examples made it easy to connect with. I laughed a lot! I also appreciated the author’s humility and vulnerability in sharing his testimony. His willingness to be honest about his own flaws and experiences made the book feel very relatable.
Overall, it’s an encouraging, thoughtful, and easy-to-read book that points readers back to what matters most: knowing God and trusting Him with what comes next.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What Does God Have Planned for Me Next is a powerful and practical guide to discerning God’s plan with obedience, gratitude, and patience. Doug Wekenman encourages readers to shift focus from personal desires to God’s greater purpose, offering clear teaching supported by videos and activities that help cement the lessons. It’s an uplifting book that equips believers to listen for God’s voice and walk faithfully in His direction. Highly recommended for anyone seeking clarity and encouragement in their spiritual journey.
Insightful, faith‑building, and deeply encouraging.
I received the book from netgalley and I am voluntarily writing my review.
Insightful, faith‑building, and deeply encouraging.
I received the book from netgalley and I am voluntarily writing my review.
August 31, 2026
I have been listening to Doug's preaching since his time in Red Rocks Young adults. He's an amazing communicator and it has been such a cool thing to watch this man of God's growth and dedication over the years.
This book is much like Doug's preaching: plain spoken, saturated in Scripture, cheesey jokes, and truth bombs all over the place.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading what to feels like a summation of his teachings for the last decade or so and feel equipped to "just pick one" when decision time calls.
This book is much like Doug's preaching: plain spoken, saturated in Scripture, cheesey jokes, and truth bombs all over the place.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading what to feels like a summation of his teachings for the last decade or so and feel equipped to "just pick one" when decision time calls.
September 3, 2026
I know I am still growing in my sanctification because like the author I am always looking for what next. Being in my sixties i can truly say that the three Superpowers are something I practice everyday. I am a retired teacher and I could easily place myself in relaxing atmospheres but am called to work in very underprivileged neighborhoods. It's hard, tiring, and some days all I can handle to get through the day. But the one or two students who receive me with love and acceptance after a long summer off is worth it. Do the hard things.
October 7, 2026
This was pretty good.
The author/pastor is a little too "quippy" for me - though I frequently also drop song lyrics and jokes in casual conversation, it just was a LOT to take in and kind of roll my eyes through as I'm trying to read CONTENT. Kind of like having an ADHD friend. FOCUS BRO! Tell me what you're trying to tell me.
That being said, he has some good stuff to say. I think a young adults group could go through this together.
The author/pastor is a little too "quippy" for me - though I frequently also drop song lyrics and jokes in casual conversation, it just was a LOT to take in and kind of roll my eyes through as I'm trying to read CONTENT. Kind of like having an ADHD friend. FOCUS BRO! Tell me what you're trying to tell me.
That being said, he has some good stuff to say. I think a young adults group could go through this together.
October 15, 2026
I listened to the audiobook and absolutely loved that Doug narrates it himself! I love Red Rocks Church, and listening to this felt like one of their sermons.
The question at the heart of this book is one I ask constantly. Having something tangible to come back to when I’m wrestling with it means so much to me. This is a book I’ll listen to over and over, and I know it will help redirect me each time I need that reminder.
The question at the heart of this book is one I ask constantly. Having something tangible to come back to when I’m wrestling with it means so much to me. This is a book I’ll listen to over and over, and I know it will help redirect me each time I need that reminder.
October 18, 2026
What a great book! Practical and powerful. This was a wonderful book to read in community and absolutely recommend the journal prompts and personal videos by Doug on YouTube that coincide with each chapter!
October 4, 2026
Doug’s analysis, anecdotes and approachable tone makes this an inviting read for all.
September 29, 2026
Loved this book! 💕
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews