How Can I Make the Right Choices in Life?
CONVERSATIONS:
Which course should I take in College?
Should I accept that offer to work overseas?
Who should I marry?
Everyday we are faced with choices. Some are simple and basic such as what to eat or what to wear. God gave us intelligence and hopefully, we have the common sense to know when and how to apply it. Other choices, however, are critical and life-changing.
It’s easier to make the smaller day-to-day decisions, if we ‘ve already settled in our hearts, the answers to our bigger choices in life. Take the time to think of the following:
Question #1:
Who Will Be Lord Over my Life?
Who will have the final say in my life? Who will I choose to trust?
Will it be God? Popular opinion? My peers? Or myself? The Bible has this to say:
"If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Joshua 24:15
Are you making that choice based on need or worry? There are people who make impulsive decisions based on fear or emotions. Pray and ask God what He thinks. Check if his word confirms it.
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Sometimes, the “common sense choice” is not always God’s best for you.
Neither is the “popular choice”.
I remember Pastor Steve’s challenging decision as a young man to obey the leading of the Lord to come to the Philippines from the US, not realizing that 6 week mission trip would unfold into a 30 year stay; a strong marriage, a flourishing, successful family life; lifelong friends and countless people reached by the gospel of Jesus. Initially, it was a lonely, unpopular choice. But he chose to obey the Lord.
Question #2:
Whose Counsel do I listen to? Am I Open to Godly Advice?
Many times, we say we are open, but deep down, we’ve already made our choice. Don’t lean on your own understanding. Get godly advice from qualified people. This will give you the opportunity to refine your choices.
Based on Proverbs 3, how do we find favor and develop a good reputation?
“Do not let kindness and truth leave you; Bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good repute In the sight of God and man." Proverbs 3:3-4
Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5
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*Trust in the Lord. Get confirmation from His word as you read and pray.
*Get godly advice from reputable people.
*Obey God’s will.
But the Lord answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her." Luke 10:41-42
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
You are the God of all wisdom. You said if we lack wisdom, we can come to You freely, without You finding fault.
Could you help me make a decision regarding this matter: ______________________________________.
Give me the ability to make not just the popular or sensible choice. I want it to be my life's goal to please the Lord in every way.
I have made the decision to make you, Jesus, the Lord of my life. Give me the knowledge on how to obey You in this matter.
Give me the right ideas and the right people who can guide me in making the choice that pleases You the most. In Jesus name, Amen.
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