Introduction
By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter: choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward. – Hebrews 11:24-26
Notice that the Bible says of Moses, “Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God.” Moses made a decision. Like Moses, all of us will face decisions, and so often it is difficult to know what to do.
We live in a time in which so many people make bad decisions. I have never forgotten being a teenager and hearing a preacher say, “Bad choices limit future options.” Each decision I make will either aid or hinder me in doing the will of God in my life.
The world is full of advice. Television programs, magazines, and the Internet are filled with advice and counsel, but so much of it is worldly and carnal. Simply put, the world just doesn’t agree with God. However, though there is so much advice, there seems to be so little truth. If we would follow God, we must live according to His will. We must make choices that are pleasing in His sight.
What are some ways that can help us make good choices?
Pray for God’s Will (I John 5:14-15)
We must begin with God. Ask the Lord to reveal His will in your life. I do not believe God is playing “hide and go seek” with His will; He is much more ready to lead His people than we are willing to be led. The Bible reminds us that we have not because we ask not. So, when you do not know what to do, ask your Heavenly Father.
Ask for Wisdom (James 1:5)
Oh for the joy that we forsake when we do not seek wisdom! Heavenly wisdom is that wit and understanding that enables us to see the world and life as God sees it. We find more difficulty and despair when we try to make our own way. When we do not know what to do, ask God for wisdom!
Search the Scriptures (Acts 17:11)
The Bible is not everything God knows, but it is everything that God wants us to know. How often do we pray for guidance when the guidance we seek has already been provided? Let us turn our attention to the principles and teachings of God’s word and live by the Scriptures.
Get Godly Counsel (Proverbs 11:14)
Seek advice from people who love Jesus Christ. Do not turn to the world for guidance, for the world is at enmity with God. The Christian ought to go to those who have been born again and are faithfully serving Christ. You may be able to ask counsel of your Christian parents, your pastor, a deacon, a teacher in your church, or a neighbor who has a good Christian testimony. Let the Lord place a faithful soul in your life who can help you make wise choices.
Seek God for Peace (Colossians 3:15)
Let God’s peace rule in your heart. God can calm your heart when you are on the right course. You may be nervous or excited, but there can also be a sweet assurance that God is with you and all is well. Do not step into territory with an unrest in your soul. Let God give you peace.
It is so important to make the right choices! Little decisions build to great decisions. I mean no unkindness, but I believe we ought to get away from the advice of ungodly celebrities and worldly philosophers. Frankly, I do not want Oprah Winfrey helping me be a husband or father. I believe prayer, wisdom, the Bible, godly counsellors, and God’s peace should lead me in making decisions.
By God’s grace, let’s make good decisions.
