Introduction
Becoming a believer and follower of Christ is one of the biggest decisions one can make in a lifetime here on Earth. But one thing that is left on the table is, how should our decision making change now that we are diving into the word of God daily. Our primary purpose is to show people the love of Christ and introduce them to the gospel so they can go and make disciples of Christ. Paul says “I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings” (1 Corinthians 9:23). With that in mind, every single decision we make should be in line with this purpose, and align with what the scriptures say. “…live in a manner worthy of the Lord and be fully pleasing to Him as you bear fruit while doing all kinds of good things and growing in the full knowledge of God (1 Colossians 1:10).
"When the honest, sincere Christian is faced with the decision regarding whether a thing is right or wrong, he should ask, does it agree with all that the Scripture has to say on the subject?"
- Curtis Hutson
There are decisions that we make daily that we don’t think about such as should we brush our teeth or not. These kind of decisions are a no-brainer because we know the pros and cons of both sides of the decision. The good outweighs the bad, so we brush them and make it a habit. The tough decisions on the other hand are the ones we are going to discuss. In the same way, we should look at the way we approach each decision. It is not a matter of pros and cons, it is a matter of, does it align with the scriptures or not.
Practical Questions to ask for Biblical Decision Making
We have gathered some practical questions to ask ourselves when making an everyday decision in our lives. All decisions are guaranteed to have consequences. Whether good or bad? That is up to our decision.
Does it help my witness for Christ?
“Even though I am a free man with no master, I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ” (1 Corinthians 9:19). Paul is making it clear that he is free to do anything yet he only wants to do the things that will bring people to Christ. This is a true servants heart and takes a lot of humility and discipline to do. This first question helps you realize why you are making the decision in the first place. We are to share the Good News of the Gospel and your decisions should not hinder you from sharing God’s word to anyone in any way.
Who is this for?
This question is a big one, due to the simple fact that the answer is usually “for myself” that should tell you that this would not be a wise decision for the sake of following our purpose of serving others. “I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings” (1 Corinthians 9:23). The word “spread” means extend out and “share” means having a portion of blessings with others. If the outcome involves with only yourself in mind, you should rethink that decision because selfishness is not what God instructs us to seek. “No one should seek their own good, but the good of others” (1 Corinthians 10:24). Don’t think for one second that you are going to be left out of the equation of blessings because our blessing is far better than what we can receive here in this lifetime. All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. HEAVEN!
Will this cause me or others to sin?
We should definitely become angry with sin, but what causes you to sin could possibly be a decision gone wrong made by you. “If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12). Sin is an issue we all have but if you have an addiction to alcohol, a wise decision would not be to walk into a liquor store. Walking into a liquor store is an innocent act until it is something you or someone else is struggling with what’s inside. The enemy is tricky and knows that you are struggling with alcohol so he presents the idea of a liquor store to hopefully get you to fall into his trap of sin. Sin glorifies satan, yet we are called to Glorify God and only Him. “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other… (Matthew 6:24).
Does this glorify God?
“So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). If you ask yourself this question, you will realize that you have been making a lot of unwise decisions. This question truly brings light to your purpose. You may be watching less Netflix shows, or consuming less media, etc.. The intent by the actions and decisions you make should be motivated to glorify God, and if it doesn’t why are you doing it in the first place? It can’t be a selfish desire because we are called to seek the good of others and spread the Good News. This may seem like an impossible decision to make but that is where your faith comes into play. If you’re seeking godly wisdom remember “…behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20)
Application
- This week you are guaranteed to have to make a decision. The next one that comes up ask yourself these questions BEFORE making the decision. Right down the different scenarios, say them out loud and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you which one aligns with scripture.
- Commit Corinthians 10:31 to memory! Read it, say it, write it, share it, post it!
Prayer
Your next steps in biblical decision making is to go in prayer. First and foremost thank God for his love, patience, and guidance. Thank Him for His word that He gave to us to instruct us on what we should want, what we should do, and examples of how we should live. Ask God for His Holy wisdom that only He can give and let this wisdom affect every decision that has to be made in our lives. In God’s word it says “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” (James 1:5) Lord we ask that you allow my decision to help my witness for Christ for the sake of the kingdom. When I make decisions I want them to be for others and not for any selfish desires. Allow my decisions to keep myself and others away from sin. And ultimately God I only want your name to be glorified with every single decision I make. Lord I thank you for the time that I get to spend with you and I pray all of these things in your son Jesus’ name, Amen.