Proverbs 14:12; 3:5,6 - Making Right Decisions

Proverbs 14:12; 3:5,6; Making Right Decisions

Prov 14:12 (KJV) There is a way which seemeth right unto a man,
but the end thereof are the ways of death.

Prov 3:5,6 (KJV)  Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and
lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge
him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Prov 3:5, 6 (MSG)  Trust God from the bottom of your heart;
don't try to figure out everything on your own.  Listen for God's
voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will
keep you on track.

Making Decisions
These are ten questions you'll want to ask yourself and pray
about when you're faced with a decision. The first five are generic.
They represent moral issues and godly wisdom that are normative for
all times. The next five are questions that you need to ask when
facing a change in direction. Let's take a look at what each question
entails.
First, have you prayed about it? The Lord's Prayer begins with a
petition for His will. Prayer was never intended to be a fourth down
punting situation in which we ask God to bail us out of our hasty
decisions. It was intended to be a first-down huddle. We aren't supposed to
ask God to bless our plans; we are supposed to ask God for His
plans.
Second, is it consistent with the Word of God? In our culture
ignorance is no excuse since resources abound. I believe every home should
have at least a concordance, Bible dictionary, topical Bible, a good
commentary and a study Bible with notes.
Third, can I do it and be a positive Christian witness?
Fourth, will me Lord be glorified?..... Am I seeking the glory of
man or glory of God? Am I doing this to be noticed by man or am I
seeking to please the Lord?
Fifth, am I acting responsibly? God doesn't bail us out of our
irresponsibility. He will let us suffer me consequences of our sins and
irresponsible choices. But when we are faithful in little things, he will put
us in charge of greater things.
Sixth, is it reasonable? God expects us to think. His guidance
may transcend human reasoning, but it never excludes it. God doesn't
bypass our mind.... We are warned in Scripture not to put our mind in
neutral. We are to think and practice what we know to be true
(Philippians 4:8,9).
Seventh, does a realistic opportunity exist? Closed doors are
not meant to be knocked down. If you have a hopeless scheme let it
go. If it isn't God's timing, wait. If a realistic opportunity
exists, and all me other factors are in agreement, then take the
plunge.
Eighth, are unbiased, spiritually sensitive associates in
agreement? Be careful not to consult only those who will agree with you.
Give your advisors permission to ask hard questions. Don't be afraid
of no answers. If it isn't God's will, don't you want to know
before you make the mistake of acting impulsively?
Ninth, do I have a sanctified desire? Don't think that being in
the will of God must always be an unpleasant task. The joy of the
Lord should be our strength.... Is this a desire to satisfy a lust of
the flesh, or a Spirit-filled desire to see God's kingdom
established and people helped?
Tenth, do I have a peace about it? This is an inner peace. In
the world you will have tribulation, but in Christ we have assurance
of overcoming the world. Is the peace of God guarding your heart
and your mind?
If you have been able to answer yes to all ten deciding factors,
what are you waiting for? (From Walking in the Light by Neil
Anderson) [Inspirational SB re Jos.22]