Day 24 – Living Boldly: How to Make a Decision

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Many people struggle with decision-making. The most crucial question you can ask yourself when making a decision is this: Am I in faith to do this? In other words, do you believe that what you’re considering is the right thing to do? Are you sure? Is this God’s will? Is your faith greater than your doubts?

Rick’s 31-Day Devotions

• 31-Day Marriage Devotion
• 31-Day Parenting Devotion
• 31-Day Young Adult Devotion

But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin (Romans 14:23).

Faith as a Stool

Faith is like a four-legged stool. To be in faith about a decision, the stool must be balanced and stable. The four legs represent the four means of grace God provides to guide you through the decision-making process:

1. Canon (God’s Word): What does the Bible say about your decision? Scripture is your ultimate authority 
and should be your first stop when seeking wisdom 
(2 Timothy 3:16-17).
2. Community (Wise Friends): What do trusted, courageous, and wise friends say? Seek advice from people who love God and want the best for you (Proverbs 11:14).
3. Conscience (Inner Voice): What does your conscience tell you? Your inner voice, when informed by Scripture and humility, will guide you biblically (Romans 2:14-15).
4. Comforter (Holy Spirit): What does the Spirit of God say? The Holy Spirit leads and illuminates truth (John 16:13). Take time to pray for and discern His guidance.

The Danger of Neglect

Most poor decisions occur when someone neglects one or more of these means of grace. Sometimes, this happens out of ignorance, but other times, it might be because of stubbornness or other forms of pride. Humility is essential in decision-making. Hold your ideas loosely, submit them to God’s Word, and seek input from His community.

Time to Reflect

1. Which of the four means of grace is your most significant struggle?
   1. Do you neglect Scripture when making decisions?
      1. Are you hesitant to seek advice from others?
2. Do you struggle to trust your conscience?
   1. Do you need help discerning the Holy Spirit’s leading?
3. What is your plan to change any potential inadequacies in the decision-making process?
   1. If you struggle with the Canon, commit to regular Bible reading and study.
   2. If you avoid Community, ask a trusted mentor or friend to walk alongside you in your decision-making process.
   3. If your Conscience seems unclear, pray for God to align your heart with His truth.
   4. If you need clarification on the Comforter, spend more time in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit for clarity and peace.

Practical Application

Before making your next decision, evaluate it using all four legs of the decision-making stool. Write down what Scripture says, seek advice from wise friends, examine your conscience, and pray for the Spirit’s guidance.

Let’s live boldly, making decisions that honor God and reflect faith grounded in His grace.

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Rick Thomas

Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.

In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master’s University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).