God has a way of bringing people and situations into our lives, and then using them to speak to us. Such has been the case recently for me. I had an occasion to meet a man that I will call Mac (fake name to protect his identity and make the story more mysterious). Mac is a great guy. I really enjoy the time I have been spending with him. He doesn’t go to The Rock, or any church for that matter. He’s just a "good ole boy" going through a rough time. Thus, God in His sovereign plan, has arranged for our paths to cross for a period of time. So I’ve been trying to help Mac through a real time transition in his life, which he has been very responsive to – to a certain degree.
The problem isn’t that Mac doesn’t go to church or believe in God. It’s not that he isn’t a good moral man and a hard worker; Mac’s problem is, he is so afraid of making a wrong decision. So much so, that he cannot bring himself to make any decision. He wants to start going to church – but "how can I know which one would be right for me", he asks? He is facing transitions in his career, his spiritual walk, family… It overwhelms him and he has become the proverbial deer caught motionless in the headlights. I have tried to help him through the decision process but when the talking is over and it is time to make a decision, I see the fear of making a wrong decision take over. It reminded me of this verse...
1 Kings 18:21 (NASB) Elijah came near to all the people and said, “How long will you hesitate between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him.” But the people did not answer him a word.
As much as Elijah wanted Israel to make the right decision, his greatest cause for frustration was that they would not make any decision.
Good Christian people want to make the right decisions, but we cannot let the fear of making a wrong decision cripple us.
When faced with a tough decision apply the following:
1. Pray for God's guidance
2. Having prayed for God's will – start moving forward, being sensitive to the Holy Spirit.
3. Do not lock yourself into your decision.
Be willing to receive correction and guidance…
Isaiah 30:21 Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” Whenever you turn to the right hand Or whenever you turn to the left.
4. We walk by faith – which means there will always be the possibility that we will make a mistake. Yet, Roman 1.17 says we are "just" (or justified in God's sight) when we walk in such faith. You can't be led if you are not willing to move and receive direction as you go.
5. Remember, God loves you. He is not looking for a chance to condemn you. He is looking for a way to lead you and bless you…
1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.
So, make your decisions this week with full assurance. God loves you and He sent His Holy Spirit to you to guide you through your decisions.