We make decisions every day, from what to have for breakfast and what to wear to the movies to where to go for college and who to start a family with. While some decisions have become routine and are easier to make, from time to time we may find ourselves in dilemmas. And as the former British Prime Minister Magaret Thatcher once said about decision-making, “Standing in the middle of the road is very dangerous; you get knocked down by the traffic from both sides.”
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
– Proverbs 3:5-6
Job 12:12
“Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?”
As Christians, our relationship with God–our omniscient, omnipresent, and omnipotent Father–affords us all we need to make wise decisions every day. God is interested in every aspect of our lives, from the minutest to the greatest. So if you find yourself struggling with a big decision and need a little help, here’s how you can find direction:
- Seek God’s guidance: Who best to run to when you find yourself in a difficult situation than your heavenly Father? Seek His will. Humble yourself, rid yourself of sin, and talk to Him through prayer. Pour out your heart before Him and He will speak to you. Don’t throw in the towel, go on your knees instead. Also, God can speak to you through His Word. As you study the Bible you can receive guidance on the best decisions to take. “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105 NIV).
- Take control of your emotions: Emotions influence decision-making. For instance, you’re more likely to make impatient and rash decisions when you’re angry or go along with an unhealthy relationship because you’re sad. The bigger your emotions are, the less likely you are to apply wisdom to the situation, so learning to control your emotions will help you make more logical and positive decisions. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).
- Seek wise counsel: The Bible teaches us that “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14 NKJV). But be careful who you ask for advice. You don’t want to approach those who would only tell you what you want to hear. While the pastor or elders at your local church might be able to steer you in the right direction concerning your decision, heed the Holy Spirit if He leads you to other spiritually grounded people.
- Draw on your own experiences: Experience leads to maturity and maturity gives you wisdom. You might say, “But I haven’t walked this path before.” It doesn’t matter. Every mistake and big decision you’ve made in the past, and every pain, heartache, disappointment, and valley, you’ve encountered along the way has taught you valuable lessons that you can draw from to make better decisions today. “Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?” (Job 12:12).
Final thoughts
You don’t have to struggle with making decisions when you serve the only one in the universe who knows the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10), knew you before you were born (Jeremiah 1:5), and only wants the best for you (Jeremiah 29:11). Turn to Him for guidance in making better choices. Hear His voice through His Word and His servants, and draw wisdom from the life lessons you have learned so far.
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