Decision Making: How to Choose Wisely

In the article on Counsel, I mentioned two kinds of decisions: moral and priority. Moral decisions are choices between right and wrong. The operating principle for moral decisions is obedience: What honors God? Yet most decisions deal with priorities, or choices between right and right. The operating principle for priority decisions is wisdom: What is the wise thing to do?\

Most of us only make two or three truly major decisions each year. And they are almost always priority choices. These could be:

   •   Deciding whether to change jobs and, if so, which job to take.
   •   Moving to a new city or staying put.
   •   Choosing which church to attend.
   •   Deciding how many children to have or whether to start a family.
   •   Figuring out how to adjust to a reduced or increased income.

These major decisions often shape the course of our lives, but they can also feel overwhelming because Scripture may not give you a direct answer.

The Big Picture Principles
Okay, picture a major decision you face. But you’re not clear what to do. You’re standing at a fork in the road. Both directions look like they will work for you. You may even be leaning toward one direction over the other. How can you make a wise decision?

1. Recognize That Mistakes Happen
Not every decision will turn out the way you hope. For example, I know a man who left a steady job after 21 years because he felt restless. Without understanding the source of his feelings, he jumped from job to job and hasn’t found stability since. Don’t let emotions drive your decisions. Instead, pray and seek confirmation that God is leading you.

2. Accept Compromise When Necessary
You may not get everything you want. In those cases, choose the best option—but only if you can find peace with it. And if you are at the fork in the road and must make a quick decision, go with you best instincts. Sometimes it’s helpful to ask yourself: Would I rather be imperfectly happy or perfectly unhappy?

3. Count the Cost
One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is to think about the cost of making the wrong decision. Mistakes can be costly in terms of time, money, and peace of mind.

4. Take Your Time
Most decisions become clear if you give yourself enough time and information. When do bad decisions happen? When we act in haste or don’t have all the facts. Slow down. Remember, very few decisions are so urgent they can’t wait two weeks.

5. Write It Down
Writing out the decision-making process brings clarity. The mind has a way of blowing small details out of proportion. By writing things down, you can see the bigger picture and think more clearly. As a professor once said, “A pencil is one of the best of eyes.”

6. Talk to Wise Counselors
Don’t make big decisions in isolation. Seek out people you trust—those who know you, have your best interests at heart, and can offer a different perspective.

7. Allow Time for Your Emotions to Catch Up
Sometimes your mind knows what’s right before your heart does. Big decisions can stir up a lot of emotions, so give yourself time to process. Over time, your feelings will align with the right decision.

The Practical Steps You Can Take

When you’re facing a big decision, here’s a step-by-step process to help you discern God’s will. Keep in mind, this is about seeking what God wants—not just what you want.

1. Define the Decision

Write down the decision as clearly as possible. Be specific about the choices you’re considering.

2. Create a Purpose Statement

Ask yourself why you’re making this decision. Write out a statement explaining your purpose. What exactly are you trying to accomplish, and why?  Are you making this choice because of a need or a want? Are you unhappy, or is there a deeper issue driving your decision?

3. Ask Key Questions

Once you’ve clarified your purpose, submit it to these questions:
      •   What is my desired outcome?
      •   What are my expectations, and are they realistic?
      •   What would Jesus do in my situation?

4. List the Pros and Cons

For each choice, make a list of advantages and disadvantages. This can help you evaluate your options more objectively.

5. Seek Spiritual Guidance

Use the seven steps of guidance to discern God’s will. More week after next, but for now: prayer, the Bible, the Holy Spirit, your conscience, your circumstances, counsel, and fasting.

6. Wait if Necessary

If the answer isn’t clear, wait. Trust that God is working behind the scenes. Don’t rush Him. Sometimes He uses the waiting period to shape your character or prepare you for what’s ahead. Remember, God is not the author of confusion—Satan is. If you’re still confused, keep praying and waiting until peace comes.

Big decisions can feel overwhelming, but God promises to guide you. Commit your plans to Him and trust His timing. As Colossians 3:15 says, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” If peace isn’t present, hold off. Peace is the umpire.

Much love,
Pat
 
Reflection Questions

1. What is the major decision you’re facing right now? Is it a moral decision or a priority decision?
2. What would you like to see happen, and is that a good thing or a bad thing?
3. Apply “The Practical Steps You Can Take” to think through the best and wisest choice—one the benefits you and bring honor to God.