“The Lord directs the steps of the Godly.” Psalm 37:23 NLT
“A good decision later than you wish is better than a poor decision made too quickly.”
My thoughts today are about “making good decisions.”
Your life and well being are the very real product of the many, varied choices and decisions that you have to make each day – some are about small matters, others important, but all more significant than you might imagine at the moment you are making them. The far-reaching impact of what may appear the simplest of decisions can reach well beyond anything you might imagine.
It is wonderful when you have sufficient information to choose wisely and well, but occasionally you will lack the very knowledge needed to know what is best. It would appear obvious that you would need the Lord’s guidance in the latter; you don’t want to be guessing in matters of continuing consequence. Here is the truth, however. You need God to guide you in matters great and small. It is best to rely upon the Lord’s wisdom even with decisions in which you feel confident, because yours and my understanding is limited even at its best. How can you make the best decisions?
Recognize your need for God’s wisdom. “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and wisdom will be given to him.” James 1:5 NIV. No one will bother to ask God for His wisdom who believes they are adequate on their own. When God offered Solomon anything that he would ask for, He wisely chose to ask for wisdom and knowledge. Read 2 Chronicles 1:7-12 NKJV. Solomon recognized his lack. “I am like a little child who doesn’t know his way around . . give me an understanding heart that I can govern Your people well and know the difference between right and wrong.” 1 Kings 3:7-9 NLT. Honesty and humility are always the best way to approach God when seeking wisdom and understanding.
Wise decisions are rarely made under pressure. Read 1 Samuel 13:7-14 NKJV. King Saul made a terribly unwise decision that set him in opposition to God’s direct and expressed will. (vs. 8-10). His excuse was that he “felt compelled.” (vs. 12). Saul gave in to pressure and the result was devastating personally and professionally.
Resist the pressure from people. Beware of the voice of the crowd. “When I saw the people . .” (vs. 11). Because everybody is saying so, doesn’t make it so. When you feel pressed to decide as someone else wants you to do, consider carefully your decision. Saul was disqualified for yielding to the pressure to do as people expected. There is one lone voice that should matter to you more than a thousand others; that voice is God’s!
Remove the pressure of time. “The steps (and stops) of the Godly are directed by the Lord. He delights in every detail of their lives.” Psalm 37:23 NLT. A decision made in a hurry is usually not your best decision. King Saul’s explanation was, “When I saw the people . . and that you did not come within the days appointed, and that the Philistines had gathered together . .” (vs. 11). A good decision a little later than you wish is better than a poor decision made too quickly. Your deadline may not be the same as God’s.
My prayer for you today is: always take the time necessary for God to direct you.