Guidance in Decision-Making

Jurors in Kentucky couldn't decide whether to convict a man of murder or manslaughter. So what did they do? They flipped a coin and found him guilty of murder! The lawyer for the defendant said, "It's scary to think that twelve people would decide to flip a coin to reach a verdict, especially in a murder case."

Are you shocked by their actions? Lots of people use the coin toss as the final deciding factor. Others simply take a wild guess and hope they've made the right choice. God offers a better way. He says, "I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go. I will counsel you with My eye upon you" (Ps. 32:8). Here are some factors to consider when you are making a decision.

1. Consider your options. Carefully examine and list every possible option to take.

2. Investigate the situation. (Luke 14:28-32) Jesus said to first sit down, which settles down our emotions so we can think clearly. Next, we are to calculate the cost, which means to do a background check on the potential situation.

3. Make a plan. (Prov. 16:9) Vision is the eye that sees the goal. A plan is the map showing us how to get there.

4. Walk in the light you have. (Ps. 119:105) God will shine His light on the right path. Sometimes it's a spotlight, while at other times it's a flicker we can barely see. Walk wherever the light shines.

5. After making your decision, don't look back. (Luke 9:62) Looking back and doubting yourself will only cause problems after you have already made the correct decision.

Keep looking up!

Kent

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