You are faced with a big decision, and you have to make a choice. How can you be sure that you’re making the right one? Choosing God’s way doesn’t have to be difficult or mysterious. In fact, James 1:5 says all you have to do is ask: “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” Here are four steps you can take to ensure that you’re choosing to follow the path of wisdom.
1. Check the Word
By far the greatest resource we have with regard to God and His desires for us is His Word. When you have an important decision to make, check the Word first to see what it says about the situation. Some things are clearly outlined in the Bible, like caring for the poor and needy, and avoiding immorality. If your decision is going to directly contradict one of these principles, chances are, you already know it’s the wrong decision.
Other things are less clear. In these situations, read the Word, and pray for God to guide you to passages that will shed light on your decision. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, we are assured that “all Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.”
2. Pray in the Spirit
Praying in the spirit, or tongues, allows you to speak directly to God. “For if you have the ability to speak in tongues, you will be talking only to God since people won’t be able to understand you. You will be speaking by the power of the Spirit, but it will all be mysterious” –1 Corinthians 14:2.
When you pray in tongues, you are praying God’s will, directly to Him. It allows your mind to get out of the way so your spirit can commune with the Father.
Click here to read 16 Scriptures About Praying in Tongues.
3. Check with Trusted Believers
God places people in your life to help you. Proverbs 19:20 tells us to “get all the advice and instruction you can, so you will be wise the rest of your life.” In Hebrews 13:17, we’re told, “Obey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit.”
So, set a meeting with your pastor, or meet for coffee with your prayer partner. Outline the decision you’re facing and possible choices. Go over the pros and cons together, and hear their advice with an open heart and mind.
4. Check Your Peace
Does the peace of God fill your heart when you think about your decision? Or are you filled with anxiety? Colossians 3:15 urges us to “let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts.” When you’ve made the right decision, even if it’s overwhelming, you will feel that deep peace that only the Holy Spirit gives.
Making big decisions, and even small ones, can be a daunting task. Thankfully, God equips you with the tools you need to have a victorious life. You just need to know where to look. By checking these four areas—the Word, praying in the spirit, the advice of trusted believers, and the inner peace that only the Holy Spirit can give—you’re better prepared to make the right choice about the important matters in your life.