How to Make Decisions in Life
Psalm 145:13b, Ephesians 4:1
Many times throughout our lives, we face crossroads where we need to make decisions, whether they are small and minor or large and important. Pastor Daniel shared about how he needed to make many difficult choices when he was younger and often received inquiries seeking advice concerning relationships, career, and life choices. Everyone faces a time when they need to make an important decision in their life. However, as Christians, we want to know what God wants.
How often do we try to navigate the decision process on our own? We may take some time to pray to God for his confirmation on decisions and His discernment about whether it is right or wrong. It may be a few days, or a few weeks, or a few months. Yet, we end up following our feelings or emotions when we feel like we have “peace of mind” on our decision because we feel like God does not speak to us directly to address our prayers or concerns. But God does not speak to us that way.
So then, how do we make decisions according to God’s will?
To ensure that we are making decisions according to God’s will when navigating an important decision, we need to follow 3 principles:
1. We need to make the decision to keep our promises.
Psalm 145:13b – “The Lord is faithful in all his words and kind in all his works.” God is faithful. God keeps His promises. Regardless of changing circumstances and despite how we may change, God keeps His promises to us. Pastor Daniel shared a story about someone who had committed to stepping up as a house church shepherd. However, before he had a chance to assume the new role, he was offered a good job with plenty of benefits, but it would require him to turn back from his commitment. Some may presume that God was rewarding him for his faithfulness and willingness to step up as a shepherd. He had a choice to make: to keep his promise and commitment or to take the job offer. He ultimately chose to keep his promise to become a shepherd. We, too, need to stay true to our promises.
2. We should be kind in our decision making and consider how others can benefit and be served.
Psalm 145:13b – “The Lord is faithful in all his words and kind in all his works.” The Hebrew word for kind can also be used to describe God’s love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness for us. When we make a decision, we tend to only consider how it works to our benefit. However, God chose to sacrifice His son Jesus Christ for our benefit. God asks us too, to be selfless. We should make the active decision to be the servant, not the master, and serve others. Just as John the Baptist expressed when he met Jesus Christ, he confessed that he wanted to decrease so that Jesus could be increased. Similarly, our actions should reflect selflessness so that others can benefit and be served.
3. We need to make a decision to serve the body of Christ.
Ephesians 4:1 – “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called”
Everyone is curious about what they are called to do. This is especially true for Christians who ponder what their purpose, meaning, or calling in life is. Although it is important to reflect on our individual calling and best utilize the gifts, talents, and blessings received from God, we often neglect the universal calling received from God. All Christians are called by God to both be a saint and to be holy. This means that we are called to serve and build up the body of Christ. When making decisions, we need to consider whether our decision is building up the church.
Reflection Questions:
What were your main takeaways from this week’s message?
Are you currently faced with any decisions in your life at this moment? If so, how can you practically apply today’s message to your decision-making process?
