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BIBLICAL MODEL FOR DECISION MAKING

A man's heart deviseth his way; but the Lord directeth his steps. (Proverbs 16:9)

A decision is a choice. You must determine an answer for a real life situation and choose what action you will take. This is called decision making. A model for decision making provides an example to follow when making decisions. Life is an endless succession of choices and decisions. Making choices is a responsibility. Constantly refusing to make a decision is in itself a decision.

The Biblical model will help you make wise choices within the will of God:

Identify the problem, question, or life situation for which guidance is sought.

Is it dealt with in Scripture by specific command, general principle or example?

Make a decision It is a questionable practice? It is a life situation?

Make a decision based on the answer to these questions:

Does it glorify God? Pray

What is your motivation? Study the Scriptures.

Is it necessary? Listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit and miraculous guidance if given.

Will it promote spiritual growth? Seek Christian counsel.

Is it an enslaving habit? Analyze the circumstances.

Is it a compromise? Use Biblical keys to direction.

Will it lead to temptation? Make decision.

Does it give the appearance of evil? Check the umpire of peace.

Does it violate your conscience?

How will it affect others?

Pray, then make a decision.

Check the umpire of peace.

If you do not have peace, continue to seek the Lord.

On decisions not specifically dealt with by Biblical command, principle, or example, the umpire of peace is your guide. When you make a decision on a questionable practice or life situation and you do not have peace in your spirit, continue to seek the Lord using the steps on the model. Do not make a final decision until you have the peace of God confirming your choice.

Never be in a hurry:

Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. (Psalms 27:14)

My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him. (Psalms 62:5)

Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him . . . (Psalms 37:7)

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31)

Saul was in a hurry and made a decision which cost him the kingdom. You can read about it in I Samuel 13. Nehemiah waited for direction from God and the right timing, and he became part of the rebuilding of a kingdom. You can read his story in the book of Nehemiah.

 

 

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