What Should I Do? (Part 2)

This two-part study is all about God-led decision making! Today, we will walk through the last ten Biblical principles of a spiritual decision-making process. By the conclusion of this study, we will know how to better bring Him into every decision we make in life.

Study:

6. Look to your religious leaders & community leaders for guidance.

Proverbs 11:14 “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” (NKJV)

Proverbs 18:1 “A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire; He rages against all wise judgment.” (NKJV)

• Seek trusted advisors and know when to include outside guidance. Be mindful that not everyone in a leadership position is a trusted advisor, but with prayer and discernment, the Lord will make it clear to you who is after His own heart.

7. Be on the lookout for warning signs.

Proverbs 16:25 “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” (NKJV)

Proverbs 27:6 “Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” (NKJV)

• The devil is on an assignment to distract, divide and conquer. Be wary and look for the warning signs. And, when you do see a warning sign, don’t think that you will be an exception to the warning. These guideposts are a gift from God, and we must navigate our journey with wisdom. God’s way is the best way for all of us. Take heed to warnings!

8. Considered the outcomes of your actions.

Proverbs 14:1 “A wise woman builds her home, but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands.” (NLT)

Proverbs 14: 14-15 “The backslider in heart will be filled with his own ways, but a good man will be satisfied from above. The simple believes every word, but the prudent considers well his steps.” (NKJV)

• Actions have consequences. Carefully consider how a decision will play out is an act of wisdom. We don’t want to be like the woman who builds a home yet tears it down with her own hands. Assess potential risk and play the long game. Also, have a contingency plan for when plans go awry.

9. Ask yourself: Could this decision jeopardize my integrity or hinder my ability to witness for the Lord?

Proverbs 10:9 “He who walks with integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will become known.” (NKJV)

Proverbs 22:1 “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving favor rather than silver and gold.” (NKJV)

• If I am not sure how something may be perceived, I ask myself: “Would this pass the nightly news test?” I consider, if I had to get up end explain myself, if my integrity would stand tall, or would I appear to lack good character. As a father, I also ask myself, “would I advise my son or daughter to make this choice?” Life is full of decisions, and it’s important to protect our name and reputation. Those two things can impact our ability to minister, which is directly linked to our purpose.

10. Ask yourself: Is there a better option that would allow me to make a better impact on God’s Kingdom?

Proverbs 11:30 “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.” (NKJV)

• Just because a decision is hard doesn’t mean it’s not God’s will. God has given you gifts and resources, so that we can use them to bring people to the Kingdom. We are his hands and feet and each decision we make should be made with that in mind.

Reflection: Have you made a design that in hindsight was made without counseling the Lord? Would you approach that differently if you could?

Prayer: Lord I pray over the decisions I must make this week, both big and small. Speak to my heart, Lord, and guide my path toward your will. Amen.