Making Wise Choices
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
Ephesians 5:15-17
In Deuteronomy 32:28-29, Moses said that Israel was “a nation without sense, there is no discernment in them. If only they were wise and would understand this and discern what their end would be.” Like all the great spiritual leaders in the Bible, Moses was intimate with God and acquiesced to His will in all things. The wise person knows the will of God; the successful person does it. If you are trying to discern God’s will and make wise decisions, consider the following questions.
First, have you prayed about it? The first thing a Christian does about anything is pray and seek God’s kingdom. Recall that the Lord’s Prayer begins with a petition to establish God’s kingdom and do His will.
Second, is what you are considering consistent with the message of the Bible? God has already revealed the majority of His will for your life in His Word. Even in the courts of our land, ignorance of the law is no excuse. So make it your habit to consult the Bible when making decisions.
Third, does the decision or choice compromise your Christian witness? If the choice you are considering requires you to compromise your witness or integrity, then the answer is no. It is never right to do something wrong, even if you think something good may come of it. The end does not justify the means.
Fourth, will the Lord be glorified through the act? Are you seeking the glory of man or the glory of God? Can you do it and glorify God in your body? Are you concerned about God’s reputation or yours? Are you building His kingdom or yours?
Fifth, are you choosing and acting responsibly? What is your responsibility, and what would be the most responsible course of action to take? You cannot be in God’s will and shirk your responsibility. Making a wise and informed decision is part of your responsibility, and God won’t make it for you.
Sixth, does a reasonable opportunity exist? God expects you to think. His guidance may transcend human reasoning, but it never collides with it. God’s guidance never bypasses your mind; He operates through it. “Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults” (1 Corinthians 14:20).
Seventh, does a realistic opportunity exist? Closed doors are not meant to be broken down. If you have a hopeless scheme, let it go. If a realistic opportunity exists, and all the other factors are in agreement, then step out in faith. God opens windows of opportunity, but they may close if you don’t take advantage of them.
Eight, are unbiased, spiritually sensitive associates in agreement? Be careful not to consult only with those who are inclined to agree with you or those who are afraid to be honest with you. Give people permission to ask hard questions and the right to disagree with you without recrimination.
Ninth, do you have a sanctified desire to do it? The greatest joy in life is to serve God and be in His will. You should feel good about doing God’s will and want nothing less. God’s guidance comes with a longing in your heart to do what you have been called to do.
Finally, do you have a peace about it? You should sense an inner confirmation if you are in God’s will and a troubled spirit if you aren’t.
a few questions to ponder:
How did Moses demonstrate that he was both a wise and successful leader?
Why is it important to pray and examine your life when seeking wisdom?
Decisions may have unintended consequences. How can considering the outcome of your actions help you make wise choices?
How does God work through your mind? How should your mind be engaged in the before and aftermath of decision-making?
Who among your associates would you go to for wise and godly counsel?
Neil T. Anderson is the founder of Freedom in Christ Ministries. He began the ministry in 1989 and continues to spread the message of freedom to this day.