Ecclesiastes 12:13 reminds us, “…Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” As a Christian, all that matters is that we put God FIRST in our lives and do ONLY what is pleasing to Him! And there will be times when we come to a crossroad in making choices and decisions in our lives. There will be times when we have to figure out “Is this right or wrong for me to do or say?” So, how do we make the right choices and decisions in these moments? Here are some steps that will guide you.
1. Are you willing to do what is right?
Jesus Christ said in John 7:17, “If anyone’s will is to do God’s will, he will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on my own authority.” The question, we have to ask ourselves is are we truly wanting and desiring to do what is right? If so, and if our lives are right with God – He will guide us in these moments to the right choice/decisions.
2. Does is agree with the Bible?
Psalm 119:11 is important for us to remember, “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” The more we know and memorize God’s Word, the more we will know what is right and what is wrong! 2 Peter 1:3 says, “His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence.” God has given us everything we need to know to make the right choices/decisions in His Word – the Bible.
3. Have you prayed about it?
Philippians 4:6 says, “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” We don’t have to struggle with making the right choices/decisions, when we can simply ask God for wisdom and guidance. Remember, James 1:5, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
4. Are you listening to the Holy Spirit?
Romans 8:26, “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” If we are seeking to know and obey God, and we are striving to live righteously as His Word commands us, the Holy Spirit will guide us – we just have to listen! The Holy Spirit is God at work in our hearts. “for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13)
5. Does it Please God?
A very simple answer to making the right choices/decisions is “Does it please God?” If it doesn’t, obviously we shouldn’t make the wrong choice! Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:31, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
Making the right choices and decisions in our life is not always easy, but it is CRITICAL if we want to honor and glorify Him with our lives and if we want to grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ!