Welcome. Let’s be clear: This post is about making a good decision, not the right decision. Because let’s be honest, usually it’s not a right or wrong. So, before you go further, remind yourself that you’re not going to mess up the rest of your life. God’s plans aren’t that fragile.
1) Pray
Well, obvi. But maybe not? Sometimes the first thing we do is go to google to figure out what to do, and maybe you’re here because of said google search. Hah. caught you. But truly, I get it, it’s a habit for us folks nowadays, don’t beat yourself up about it, just quite literally pray right now and ask God about it. And if you already have prayed 5 million times, go ahead and ask him again. Take note of anything you feel while you pray and address that with Him too. If you feel pressure to go one way because it’s the more “sacrificial thing to do” or the more “Christian”, tell Him. If you feel afraid, tell Him. If you’re just at a total loss, tell Him.
2) Consider Fasting
Anytime I have a major decision that is tearing me up, I usually end up fasting. Like, actual food for an entire day. I let the Lord know that I’m serious, very open and would reallllllllllly like some direction. And I’m going to be honest, the Lord has met me every. single. time. I’m not one to say that there’s a guaranteed way of hearing from God, but it has literally worked every time. Perhaps it will for you too.
3) Determine and Review Your Values
We have returned to this method so many times in the recent years. So stinking practical and efficient! If you haven’t already, first determine your (and your family’s) core values. Write down some basic ideas to these questions: What are you hoping for this season or future years of your life to look like practically? What are basic values that represent those hopes? Once you’ve been able to clarify these ideals, take a step back and review those values in light of your decision.
4) Know Thyself
Take some time to think through who you are and how that impacts the dynamics of this decision. What is making this decision specifically hard? Do you feel at war with yourself? Could you work through anything internally that would help pave the path for this decision? Take some time to journal or talk with a friend about it.
5) Write Down a Classic Pro/Con List
If you haven’t done it yet, get out the old notepad and pen and write all the pros in a column next to the cons. Just getting it all out into the open might bring some clarity on what is the better overall direction.
6) Invite a Few People In
Think through two or three people that know you well, are objective, and have a good head on their shoulders. Ask them what they think. Ya never know when someone’s got a golden nugget perspective to share that’s just what you needed to hear. It’s also so solid to have community be apart of your life and to be able to contribute.
There you have it, my friends. I hope this helped straighten out a few thoughts and lead you to where you need to be.
