Yes, No, Maybe So?
There are usually two extremes we go to when making choices: we either pick too quickly, without thought or become paralyzed with the fear of making the wrong choice. Before we move any further, let’s clarify the type of decisions we are talking about today.
The first type of choice we make is a decision that either enables us to sin or draws us closer to God. Deep down, we often feel convicted and know what choice will bring us nearer to Him. If we are walking with Christ, the answer is usually clear. But we can still rationalize and talk to people who will give us the answers that we want to hear. Through the Bible, God gives us clarity to help us make life-giving choices. Then, we choose what we are going to act on: if we will listen to our flesh or God's truth.
To be controlled by human nature results in death; to be controlled by the Spirit results in life and peace.
The second type of choice we have to face are the decisions in which both options have potentially good outcomes. We have good intentions as we make these choices and want to honor God with our decisions – situations like choosing a college, changing a major, taking a new job, or moving to a new location. Let’s look at some practical suggestions we can take when we are in one of these circumstances, remembering that God loves us and wants us to succeed.
Prayer: Don't be afraid to ask others around you to pray for you! Be bold in your personal prayer life and ask God to make things clear to you. Sometimes, if you have continued to pray for clarity and nothing has changed, maybe God is letting you know that you are capable of making this choice. He can use whatever you choose!
Counsel: Be intentional with whom you speak to and get guidance from. It is important to not only receive counsel from one person, but a few trusted friends or mentors who are at different stages of life.
Where do you want to be in 5 years? What options will bring you closer to your long term goals or desires for your future? It’s okay to make choices based on your desires as long as they are aligned with God’s will.
Sometimes even when we go through these practical suggestions we feel paralyzed. Paralyzed (in our thinking) that God doesn't love us or that we will ruin our lives if we make the wrong choice. But all those thoughts are rooted in lies. If you find yourself in this spot, like me, we might just need to take a step in one direction or the other. Then trust that by moving forward God will make it clear if we should continue. If we wait around and don't do anything, then nothing is going to happen.
I once heard a pastor preach about the verse, Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions. With all your heart rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make. Become intimate with him in whatever you do, and he will lead you wherever you go.” He explained, if we are following Christ and have intimacy with Him, we can't make a wrong choice. We are able to trust that God is more powerful than our choices. All we have to do is stay connected to Him and remember that God has a purpose for our lives!
God wants us to succeed.
Proverbs 16:3, “Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.”
God loves and sings over us.
Zephaniah 3:17, “For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.”
God has a purpose and plan for us.
Phillipians 1:6, “ And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.”
God's influence over us.
Job 42:2, “I know that you can do anything, and no one can stop you.”
God is rooting for you! He has a purpose and plan! God created you with desires and He wants to help you succeed in whatever choice you make.
Have you been actively praying about the choices you are facing?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Moriah is an English Major at Nyack College. Ever since she was young she has had a passion to create. Whether that be writing a story, painting, or decorating her room, God has given her a desire to share how He has changed her life and she is excited to take you along on her journey!