MAKE GOOD DECISIONS

Proverbs 16:25 “There is a way which seems right to a man and appears straight before him, but its end is the way of death.”

The decisions we make can either be good or bad. Because decisions carry serious and lasting consequences, it is important that we intentionally strive to make good decisions. Making good decisions is not merely about waiting to see the outcome before judging whether a decision was right or wrong. Rather, it begins with examining the process and the foundation upon which the decision is made.

You see, being a Christian does not automatically guarantee that you will always make good decisions. What you benefit from as a Christian is the grace and ability given by the Lord to make good decisions, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, who guides you into all truth.

To make good decisions, you must be well informed. Not everything you hear or see is accurate, so facts and information must be verified. Decisions are too important to be made based on speculation, assumptions, or emotions. Whether it concerns your finances, relationships or marriage, or career, take time to seek the truth. Truth provides direction and prevents costly mistakes. As Proverbs 18:15 says, “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.”

Secondly, to make good decisions, you must pray. Prayer aligns your heart with God’s will and purpose whenever decisions must be made. Through prayer, you also receive the strength and clarity needed to make difficult and bold decisions. Take a cue from Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, where prayer enabled Him to submit fully to the will of the Father despite the cost.

Thirdly, seek godly counsel when making decisions. At times, you may be sincerely wrong about what you think you know. At other times, emotional attachment, pressure, or fixation can cloud your judgment. Godly counsel provides instruction, guidance, insight, inspiration, and sometimes caution, all of which help you make sound decisions. Proverbs 20:18 reminds us, “Plans are established by counsel; therefore make war with wise guidance.”

Finally, do not make decisions based solely on your current emotions or circumstances. Feelings change, and circumstances are temporary. When decisions are driven by emotions or pressure, they often lead to regret. Learn from Esau, who made a costly decision based on momentary hunger, and from Abraham and Sarah, who made a wrong decision because of delayed childbirth. Temporary discomfort should never dictate permanent decisions.

Read: Proverbs 14:12 “There is a way which seems right to a man and appears straight before him, but its end is the way of death.”

Prayer: Lord, I pray for grace, wisdom, and discernment to always make the right decisions. Amen.