Welcome to another episode of the Health for the Spirit, Soul, and Body Blog from Doxa Missions. Every day, we face a myriad of decisions that shape our destiny, success, and spiritual journey. Understanding how to make wise, effective decisions is not just a skill but a necessity in our walk of faith. This post offers insights and practical strategies for Christians seeking to navigate life’s choices with wisdom and confidence.
Decision-Making Within a Christian Framework
When making decisions, it’s important not to waste too much time. We don’t need to have all the facts before deciding or taking action. Once we have a sufficient amount of information, we can proceed and make corrections along the way. As Christians, it’s crucial that our decisions align with the principles of the Word of God. When they do, God will support these decisions. He has declared in His Word, "I watch over my word to perform it" (Jer. 1:12). This promise assures us that when our choices reflect God’s principles, He will oversee their fulfillment.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) beautifully captures this: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
The Importance of Decisive Action and Faith in the Decision-Making Process
One factor that often paralyzes us and slows our decision-making is the fear of making mistakes. Our desire for perfection can lead us to wait for everything to align perfectly before deciding. However, decision-making is like a muscle; it improves with practice. As Christians, we should remember that God will strengthen and support us in our decisions. Therefore, it’s important to make decisions and take responsibility for them as we move forward, trusting that God is with us. James 1:5 (NIV) encourages us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
Overcoming Passivity with Active Decision-Making
When we procrastinate or delay making a decision, we inadvertently let circumstances make the decision for us. In such cases, we find ourselves being dictated by circumstances rather than controlling what happens to us and shaping our own destiny. Being active in our decision-making means taking control and ensuring our choices align with our values and goals. Joshua 24:15 (NIV) is a powerful reminder: “But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve… But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”
Total Commitment in the Decision-Making Process
Decisions are more likely to succeed when you go all-in. Going all-in is akin to the phrase “hook, line, and sinker,” meaning complete commitment. By fully investing in a decision, we leave nothing to chance and prevent external factors from disturbing our resolve.
In my own life, I’ve discovered that the greatest progress occurs when I wholeheartedly focus on a specific task, unwavering in my resolve to complete it successfully. One vivid testimony stands out: the time I applied to medical school in Nigeria. The process involved a highly competitive exam known as the JAMB admissions examination. During this test, candidates were allowed to select three choices. Most candidates usually place medicine as their first choice, followed by pharmacy and other biological fields as second and third options—just in case they didn’t meet the cutoff for medicine.
But I made a deliberate decision: I resolved to be a doctor. So, I listed medicine as my first, second, and third choices. I knew that I had no fallback plan—I was all in. And by the grace and mercy of God, I focused relentlessly. It wasn’t about having a safety net; it was about trusting that if medicine was meant for me, it would become possible. Ultimately, I met the requirements for entrance into the medical program.
Accountability in Christian Decision-Making
When making decisions, it’s crucial to own them and take responsibility for the outcomes. Being decisive and making subsequent choices becomes challenging if we continuously look back and blame ourselves for past decisions. Accountability helps us learn from our experiences and grow stronger in our decision-making ability. Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) advises, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Using the “TERMS” Acronym for Strategic Decision-Making
To enhance decisiveness, consider the acronym “TERMS”:
T for Time: Do I have enough time for what I’m deciding to do?
E for Energy: Do I have sufficient energy to invest in my decision?
R for Resources: Are the necessary personnel and resources available to execute the project?
M for Money: Do I have the financial means for this project?
S for Sanity: How will this decision impact my mental well-being?
Applying these criteria can make decision-making more rational, practical, and strategic.
Balancing “TERMS” with ROI, Future Value, and Personal Growth
When evaluating a decision using the “TERMS” acronym, it’s important to balance these factors against the Return on Investment (ROI), the future value of the endeavor, and the personal growth involved. Ensure that the elements of “TERMS” (Time, Energy, Resources, Money, Sanity) do not outweigh the potential ROI, future benefits, and personal development opportunities. This holistic approach considers both immediate resources and long-term gains.
Value-Based Decision-Making
Aligning decisions with personal values is essential. Regularly checking that our decisions align with our core values, both physically and spiritually, ensures every choice reflects what we stand for. This strengthens our integrity and guides us towards more fulfilling and authentic life paths. Psalms 25:4 (NIV) says, “Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths.”
Future-Oriented Mindset in Decision-Making
When making decisions, it’s important to base them on our future aspirations rather than our current competencies or immediate circumstances. This forward-thinking approach helps us stay focused in the right direction. Even after making a decision, we should embrace it, keeping in mind that adjustments may be necessary along the way. While things may not always unfold as planned, setting our sights on the future ensures continual improvement and progress. Revelation 2:10 (NIV) reminds us, “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer… Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.”
How do you navigate your Christian decision-making process? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments section below. Let's grow and learn together on this journey of faith and wisdom!
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