How should I make a big decision?
Colossians 3:17 NIV
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Let’s begin with three statements we might hear at a college graduation from a “very important” speaker. Analyze these statements with me:
- Not realizing what you want is a problem of knowledge.
- Not pursuing what you want is a problem of motivation.
- Not achieving what you want is a problem of persistence.
What is the one common thread in each of those statements? It is the word “you.” Look again at those three statements and identify the missing word in each of those three statements. It is God. Shouldn’t God be part of those statements? Absolutely. Because God is no dummy, right?
Let’s change one word in those three statements and read them again.
- Not realizing what God wants is a problem of knowledge.
- Not pursuing what God wants is a problem of motivation.
- Not achieving what God wants is a problem of persistence.
Do you want what you want or do you want what God wants? Let’s paraphrase it another way. Do you want what a dummy like you wants, or do you want what the wisest Being in all the universe wants? Who do you think will make the better decision, a dummy like you (and me) or an all wise God who has never yet made a single mistake? Obviously, God will always make the better decision, but He is usually not part of the decision making process.
Decision-making is very important because my decision affects not only me, but also my family as well as everyone around me. I need to make absolutely certain I make the right decision because my decision impacts so many people.
So the #1 thing I must do is bring God into the decision-making process, and base my decision on what is pleasing to the Lord!
Tom Swartzwelder
Sep 4, 2024 – On September 3, 2024, Tom Swartzwelder completed the race that God had set before him. He is now with Jesus, the author and finisher of his faith.’
Hebrews 12:1-2A
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
He provides practical how-to-do-ministry resources for the disciples of Jesus Christ at http://www.godsgreenhouse.net. Tom’s latest book is “God Speaks–Today!”
Your lIfe was like that of a candle that comes to an end after doing a very important work. You have used simple words to deliver a great message. I will always remember YOU.