Making Biblical Decisions

The Bible offers many principles to aid in the process of making decisions that honor God.  The following list is not exhaustive, but it does represent many teachings of Scripture.

First, begin with prayer.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, “Be joyful always;; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”  If we should pray in all situations, we should certainly pray in times of decision-making.

Second, define the issue.

Wise decisions are informed decisions.  It is important to understand what options are available. Once the factors are known, options can be further considered and evaluated.

Third, seek biblical wisdom. (James 1:5)
 Some decisions become easy if there is one clear choice consistent with with God’s Word. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.”  When we follow the teachings of God’s Word, He guides our path and provides knowledge to make wise choices.

Fourth, seek godly counsel.

Proverbs 15:22 says, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Sometimes, consulting with a friend or family member is enough.  At other times, consulting with a pastor or other trusted voice can make the difference between a harmful decision and a helpful one.

Fifth, trust the Lord with your decision.

In other words, if you’ve made your decision with prayer, sound wisdom, and biblical counsel, trust God for the outcome.  Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Sixth, be willing to admit mistakes and adjust accordingly.

In most cases, there is no wisdom in continuing down a wrong path after you have discovered it is wrong.  Be willing to admit mistakes or failures and ask God for the grace to change.

Seventh, give praise to God for your success.

When your decisions result in personal success, the temptation is to believe it is due to your own talent or genius.  However, it is God who blesses our efforts and gives strength.  “A man can receive only what is given him from heaven.” (John 3:27)

When you face a decision about your future, seek God’s will above all else.  Make your decision a matter of prayer, and ask Him to guide.  If we are truly open to His will, He will direct us.

Should we just wait around until God gives us some kind of miraculous sign or deep inner conviction?  No, not necessarily. God wants us to be practical.  Do research if you need to; understand yourself and your gifts; seek the advice of others.  Make your decision in the light of God’s Word; God never leads us to do anything that is contrary to the Bible.

Remember, too, that God often guides us only one step at a time, but that is all we need to know.  So don’t be anxious. Trust God to guide you, and He will.

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