If you were offered a job that pays twice as much as you now make, in a similar field, in a city you like, would you take the job, pull up roots and move? Would you base your decision on money? The decisions you make are defining. Your decisions determine the future. Many surveys and studies indicate that the Gen Y, Millennials, and Gen Z generations have difficulty making decisions. The unlimited options that are available today are a factor. What should I eat? What should I watch? There are endless options. Have you ever spent thirty minutes trying to decide what to watch on Hulu or Netflix, only to realize you now don’t have time to watch it? Back in the day, for those of us who are a bit older, there were fewer options and no social media influence. There was no “illusion of perfection” as projected by social media posts. Life was in person, flaws and all. Now an online presence presents a snapshot, a post, someone’s highlight reel of life which gives the impression of amazing, exciting, perfection. When you look at that, and believe it to be true, you may draw the conclusion that your life is lacking. We all need to improve our decision-making skills and determine the foundation upon which our decisions will be made. If you have a dream, it should direct your choices. It should be your greatest influencer.

Scriptures – Ephesians 3:20-21; 1 Corinthians 16:6-9; Proverbs 16:9; 1 Kings 3:11-12; Proverbs 4:7; Proverbs 13:20; James 1:5; Proverbs 32:8; 1 Thessalonians 3:1

Verses – Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. (Ep 3:20-21 NIV) We can make plans, but the Lord determines our steps. (Pr 16:9) Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment. (Pr 4:7) Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of foods suffers harm. (Pro 13:20) 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. (Js 1:5)

Thought – When making a decision, how do you know if it’s what God wants you to do? Some believe God will spell it out for them, and there will be no obstacles or complications. That is not the way things work. It’s a process. God doesn’t show us all the details, sometimes very few details. So, how do you know God’s will? The Holy Spirit helps you discern God’s will. Scripture says God will give you wisdom if you ask. This isn’t googling information. King Solomon offered 1000 burnt offerings to God. This was an extravagant sacrifice and expression of worship. God was so pleased that He told Solomon to ask for whatever he wanted, and God said He would give it. Solomon asked for wisdom to be a good ruler in Israel and to bring honor to God. God’s heart was so moved that He not only gave Solomon wisdom but also great wealth and honor, such as had never been seen before nor has been seen to this day. Wisdom also comes from walking with the wise. If you want the right life you need the right friends. You need to be plugged into worship, daily devotions, and small groups that help to strengthen you. You need to seek God’s Word for answers. Scripture gives direction for many of our decisions, but if you have a decision for which there is no clear moral direction, consult your best resources and make the best decision you can. You will make mistakes at times, but don’t be afraid of that! Mistakes are part of the learning process. They make us better the next time. Serve God the best you can in the moment, that’s all that you can do. 

Questions – Have you ever had no doubt about a decision, because God’s will was obvious to you? When have you had a decision that you weren’t sure of God’s will? How did you make that decision? Have you ever rejected the decision God wanted you to make? How did that turn out? What’s the worst decision you ever made? What’s the best decision you ever made?

Response – Decide if the people you are hanging out with are helping you gain Godly wise. If not, you need new friends. Begin to spend time with those who can help sharpen your spiritual intellect. Ask God for wisdom.

Prayer – Direct my steps, Lord. Help me to be sensitive to your Holy Spirit. May the decisions I make promote the dream you have placed within me and the plan you have for my life. In Jesus’ Name I pray, amen.