“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 your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6
I first became aware of this verse many years ago in a colleague’s office and it really spoke to me. It all boils down to trust in God’s plan for us.
I used to really agonize over decisions in my life. Clearly, if an action that was not Biblical, it was not a choice I would make. Yet, there were plenty of other circumstances in my life that needed a decision yet had a variety of godly options. I would pray about it, and ask what to do, but I often didn’t feel I received a direct answer. This left me feeling so afraid I would make a bad decision that I was almost paralyzed at times.
Romans 8:28 became a lifesaver for me: “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”
I began to realize that if I made a well thought out and godly decision after praying about it and followed through, that God would work it together for good. What a relief! It’s a relief to know that I don’t have to make perfect decisions; I can place it in God’s hands and trust that He will lead and guide me as I seek Him. Even in the moments when I can’t sense or feel it, knowing God is at work brings me peace.
Another practical insight that has helped me navigate decision making is taking into account my giftedness. For example, if I acknowledge that my gifts make me a better deacon than an elder, I am clearly in God’s will to accept that position. Knowing that communications is another of my talents means that I should focus on activities that use that to God’s glory. The fact that I have a heart for children has led me to be a teacher on Wednesday nights with TeamKid. What are your strengths? How has God gifted and wired you? Knowing yourself is another helpful way to navigate decisions.