As you think back on your life, you can probably think of a time you faced a difficult decision. Maybe you are facing one currently. These tough decisions might range from deciding on a house to buy, deciding on a new career path, deciding to starting a family, or a whole host of other difficult choices.

When I find myself faced with a difficult decision, I often think how nice it would be if I could just text God and say “What choice should I make? A or B” and God would text back moments later with a short and sweet response. Other times I think, “Lord, I know you have a lot of angels taking care of a lot of important matters at the moment, but do you think you could free one up for a moment to come tell me what choice to make?”

While God IS fully capable of sending me a text or an angel to guide my decision making, I haven’t experienced it yet. But there are some other ways God has given us to help guide our decision-making process as we strive to move forward in faith.

1. Pray. While I haven’t found a number to text God at yet, (if you have one, please share it with me!) God always hears our prayers. He is accessible 24/7. You will never get his voicemail or be put on hold. God loves you and desires to hear from you. Christ is interceding before God and sharing your prayers. James 1:5 reminds us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” God wants to give you wisdom and guidance, you need only ask. As you pray for guidance, be sure to have times of silence. Wait and listen for God’s voice. It is a conversation that goes both ways. Allow the Holy Spirit to move in your heart and give you discernment.
2. Reflect on Scripture. Psalm 119:105 reminds us, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” God will never call you to do something disobedient to scripture. Know that what God has called you to will never FORCE to you sin, although at times you may be tested. Spending time in scripture and reflecting in God’s words may also give you discernment in your decision-making process & be a light for your path.
3. Seek wise council. When you are faced with a difficult decision, it can be beneficial to talk through your options with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor. Proverbs 11:14 reads, “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” God through the Holy Spirit can speak truth through these individuals and give guidance to your decision-making process. Sometimes those who know you best, can see the gifts that God has given you and the work He is calling you to more clearly than you can at times.

Your Monday Mission is to consider using some of these tools to guide your decision-making process as you face difficult decisions in life and in your mission field.

Photo by Wil Stewart on Unsplash