How many times have you rehashed a decision because you…well, couldn’t decide?
I don’t know anyone like that.
(Raises hand, forms “loser” sign with thumb and index finger on forehead.)
The believer possesses a powerful decision making skill that is oftentimes overlooked.
A Decision involves God’s secret counsel
But His secret counsel is with the upright. ~ Proverbs 3:32b
The believer possesses a deep, abiding gift: God’s secret counsel.
Think of it! We have His wisdom at our disposal.
And yet…we waste time agonizing over a decision.
Why is that?
Deep down, we know the answer
Sometimes we make the choice much harder than necessary, because deep down, we know the answer.
Problem is, it’s not the answer we want.
So, we ignore it.
The powerful skill of wisdom in the form of common sense
For two weeks, I wrestled with a decision. I was presented with a coveted opportunity in the Christian blogging community.
My heart said “yes”!
But my head said “no”.
I’ve been studying book of Proverbs on wisdom.
wisdom: The quality or state of being wise; knowledge of what is true or right coupled with just judgment as to ACTION; sagacity, discernment, or insight.
Wisdom is about knowing what action to take.
When we walk with the Lord, He impresses wisdom upon us in the form of action. That is called common sense.
You may not realize it, but He is working in your inner thought life as you study the Word, pray, and sharpen iron through the wisdom of other believers.
Peace comes with acceptance
I prayed for a solid week over my answer. Wrestled, even. Discussed it with a couple of wise, praying friends.
The truth was, this opportunity had been one of my previous goals.
But through a recent change in circumstances, it no longer lined up with my current goals, one of which was to create more balance and family time.
Knowing what I had to do, I turned down that “hopportunity” (Confessions of a Shopaholic fans – you understand).
Peace flooded my soul.
Deep down, I knew the whole time my answer should be no.
The decision process need not be so difficult
I am an analyzer by nature. Picking apart each scenario is my personality curse trademark.
I tend to be driven by emotion. But God knew that when He formed me.
Because this way, I have to rely even harder on Him for my decisions.
As John Ortberg so aptly stated in his book, All the places to go, how will you know?
The biggest difference between people who flourish in life and those who don’t is not money, health, talent, connections, or looks. It’s wisdom – the ability to make good decisions.
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When it’s time to move
Not all decisions are black and white, and there are times when the options on both sides are favorable. That’s when you have to make up your mind to move forward.
But sometimes, you already know the answer and you just don’t really care for it.
1.) Avail yourself of God’s secret counsel.
2.) Recognize whether or not you’re putting off the obvious choice.
3.)Use common sense to assess the situation, then make a decision. The process doesn’t have to be as difficult as you’re making it.
4.) Step away from emotions and look your decision full in the face.
Perfectionism oftentimes lends itself to stagnation.
And stagnation is a delayer of peace.
So go ahead. Make that decision. And then, enjoy that peace!
What decision are you wrestling with today?
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