SpiriseBible
Seeking God's Will: Making Decisions with Divine Wisdom
Big or small, every decision matters. Let's explore how to seek God's guidance through real-life decision-making scenarios.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." - Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)
Maria has two job offers: one with higher pay but requires relocating away from family and church; the other keeps her local but with less money.
Maria's Decision Analysis:
| Factor | High-Paying Job | Local Job |
|---|---|---|
| Financial | +40% salary increase | Current salary |
| Spiritual | Unknown church community | Established spiritual home |
| Family | Far from loved ones | Near family support |
| Ministry | New opportunities? | Current youth leader role |
| Peace Level | Anxious | Peaceful |
God's Economics vs. World's Economics:
"For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" - Mark 8:36
Sometimes God's best for us isn't what looks best on paper. He values relationships, spiritual growth, and kingdom impact over financial gain.
🔍 Scripture Filter
- Does it align with biblical principles?
- Would Jesus approve?
- Does it help me love God/others more?
🕊️ Peace Filter
- Do I have peace when I pray about it?
- Or do I feel anxious and unsettled?
- Is the peace lasting or temporary?
👥 Counsel Filter
- What do godly mentors say?
- Is there consensus among advisors?
- Are red flags being raised?
🚪 Doors Filter
- Are doors opening or closing?
- Is the path clear or forced?
- Does timing feel right?
James has been dating Sarah for two years. She's wonderful but not a believer. He's torn about proposing.
When God's Word Is Clear:
"Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness?" - 2 Corinthians 6:14
Some decisions don't require lengthy prayer - God has already spoken clearly in His Word. Our job is to obey, trusting His wisdom over our emotions.
Decision-Making Checklist:
Not just once, but consistently over time
Looking for principles and direct guidance
From mature believers who know me well
What will this produce in 5, 10, 20 years?
Am I driven by fear, greed, or faith?
Lisa needs to choose a college major. She's prayed for months but doesn't feel clear direction.
In the Waiting Room
Sometimes God's silence is His way of saying:
- ✨ "You have freedom to choose"
- ✨ "I'll be with you either way"
- ✨ "Trust the wisdom I've already given you"
- ✨ "The timing isn't right yet"
⚠️ A Word About "Fleeces"
Some people try to force God's hand: "If X happens, I'll know it's Your will." While God honored Gideon's fleece (Judges 6), it was a sign of weak faith, not strong faith. Better to trust God's Word, wisdom, and peace than to demand signs.
When Multiple Options Are Good:
"The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way." - Psalm 37:23
Sometimes God gives us freedom because multiple paths could honor Him. He's more concerned with HOW we walk than WHERE we walk.
- Identify a decision you've been avoiding
- Spend 15 minutes daily praying about it
- Find 3 relevant Bible verses
- Talk to 2 wise counselors
- Write out pros/cons through God's lens
- Make a decision and move forward in faith
"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." - James 1:5 (KJV)
Final Thoughts:
God is more interested in your relationship with Him than your perfect decision-making. Even when we choose poorly, He can redeem our mistakes. The key is to seek Him, obey what we know, and trust His sovereignty over our lives.
