A Daily Purpose

Bible Study & Devotional Day 262

Guiding Scripture: (Isaiah 30:21)“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” 

Making Decisions God’s Way

Contributing writer: Lisa C. Gant

Not long ago, I was presented with an investment opportunity that looked great on paper. People were gathering together in the spirit of building wealth, and as long as everyone contributed to the greater mission, we would all win. That was the claim, anyway. It seemed incredible, almost too good to be true.

And it was. And I almost fell for it.

At the outset, everything looked legit. A trusted individual invited me to discuss the details, and I presented the proposal to my husband. We were budding investors, but we did our research and felt ready to move forward. 

Until we prayed about it.

 That was when we got a distinct feeling that something was wrong.

Without knowing exactly why, my husband and I decided to back out of the venture, only to discover later that things weren’t what they seemed. That is why you must invite God to help you make decisions, especially major ones.

2020 was a year full of significant decisions for people around the world. Parents had to decide if and when to send their children to school during a pandemic. Hurting families made tough sacrifices when faced with job losses or rising medical costs. And the United States has faced one of the most contentious political elections of our generation. 

How do we, as Christians, make wise choices during so much chaos?

 The Bible gives us several precise steps to take:

1. Ask God for wisdom. James 1:5 tells us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” God isn’t some cold deity in the sky, watching and laughing at us as we struggle through life. He is deeply concerned about our needs and more than willing to supply the wisdom we need to make the right decisions. But first, we must ask Him for help.
2. Seek advice from sources/people you can trust. It’s dangerous to make all of your most important decisions alone. God designed us to function in a community. Proverbs 11:14says, “Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers.” Just make sure your inner circle includes people who are mature, discreet, and willing to disagree with you when necessary.
3. Let God’s peace lead you. Philippians 4:6-7 instructs us, “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.” That is arguably the most critical step in making significant decisions. If you have sought wisdom from God and others and still don’t have peace, that is often a red flag. Either your lack of peace is being caused by your fear (which needs to be cast out), or it’s a warning from God about your decision. 

Are you facing a significant decision in your life right now? If so, take some quiet time to follow the steps listed above. Whether you look to the right or the left, I can promise you’ll hear the Lord telling you which way to go. You just need to listen.

This devotional was written by Lisa C. Gant, a loving contributor to Our Given Purpose®. Edited by Torrie Slaughter in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan

Sunday, September 19, 2021

Isaiah 30:12-33:9, Galatians 5:1-12, Psalm 63:1-11, Proverbs 23:22 

Download or Print the One Year Bible Reading Plan