Principles To Consider

As we come to the end of the year, some of you will be needing to make decisions. How do we make wise decisions? The Book of Proverbs give us great principles to consider before we make decisions. Consider these principles:-

1. Do I have all the facts?

• To answer before listening—that is folly and shame (Proverbs 18:13 and 17)

2. Is the pressure of time forcing me to make a premature decision I might not otherwise make? Do not rush your decision.

• Desire without knowledge is not good, and whoever makes haste with his feet misses his way. (Proverbs 19:2; 25:8, 21:5)

3. Honestly, what are the possible motives that could be driving this decision?

• All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the LORD. (Proverbs 16:2; 20:9, 21:2)

4. What is the collective counsel of my community (example – my Life Group members)?

• The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice. (Proverbs 12:15; 11:14, 15:22, 20:18, 24:6, 27:9, 13:20, 18:1 – 2)

5. Have I fully considered all the possible outcomes for each course of action I am considering?

• The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps. (Proverbs 14:15; 14:1, 27:12, 14:23)

6. Could this decision jeopardize my integrity or hinder my witness for the Lord in any way?

• Like a muddied spring or a polluted well are the righteous who give way to the wicked. (Proverbs 25:26; 10:9, 22:1, 20:7)

7. Is there a better option that would allow me to make a greater impact for God’s kingdom?

• The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who is wise saves lives. (Proverbs 11:30)

8. As I fully entrusting this decision to the Lord – and that I will not “force a door to open”?

• Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5 – 6; 16:3, 28:25)

 

Ps Lawrence Yap.