Godly Decisions

Sweet Decision by Paul Shulenberg

Yesterday, after months of planning, preparation, and prayer, I committed to Covenant College. It is a decision both freeing and exciting, and I could not be more delighted. This, however, was a lengthy process, and looking back, I think I have learned a fair amount about not only college applications but decision-making in general. 

We make many decisions in life. We choose what to eat for breakfast, what to wear for the day. We choose how we speak to other people and whether we honk at the driver in front of us. We make larger decisions, like what to give to our children in our wills, and where to go to school. 

Decisions are everywhere. Sometimes, the answer is clear. We know what we like for breakfast, so that's what we choose. Other times, we spend months pondering before we finally just pick something to get it over with, in hopes that we don't regret it.

For the Christian, however, decisions aren't just a matter of what we want. We are called to honor and glorify God in every action, and the decisions we make directly impact our ability to do so. It is worth asking, then, how to make Godly decisions. 

Like any other question of faith, the ultimate first source is Scripture. We ought to read the Bible and determine what it says about any issue. The Bible is full of God's direct rules for life and advice for situations. It addresses everything from divorce to dinner. While we have been set free from lots of Old Testament rules through Christ's sacrifice, the fact remains that God's Word provides guidance on thousands of decisions. We should familiarize ourselves with Scripture and then apply its advice to our decisions. 

There are also subjects, particularly those of the modern era, which Scripture doesn't directly address. These can include things like colleges, dating, or technology. While the Bible addresses hundreds of topics, it does not provide a step-by-step answer for every decision. However, it does give us principles. God does not give you a personalized budget for the next ten years. He does, however, offer us principles and guidance about money in general and how best to steward it. Scripture doesn't conform to our unique circumstances, but it does provide insight that can be applied to our personal lives. 

This was my issue with college decisions. I knew that God had a plan, but I didn't know what it was or when He would reveal it to me. I knew from Scripture that I am called to steward my money well and spread the Gospel, among other things, but all of these principles were things I could apply in pretty much any of the schools I was choosing between. I was praying for some divine word, for God to whisper in my ear or visit me in a dream, or send an angel like He did for Mary. 

When I brought this up to a fantastic mentor of mine, she brought me a verse from 1 Timothy. "The Lord has given us a Spirit not of fear, but of power, and love, and self-control." And another from 2 Corinthians: "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." I was looking for a straightforward answer about where the Lord wanted me to go. She suggested I look for the feelings that we know God brings. Now, sometimes, being led by feelings is a risky move. But I wasn't really seeking a feeling-- I was seeking the Spirit that brings it. 

When I set foot on campus, all the nervousness I had felt drained away. I did feel power, love, and self-control. I felt freedom. The student body all exhibited the fruits of the Spirit, honoring one another and me in love. I had a decision to make, and God had an answer. All I had to do was seek Him, and he provided for my needs. I assure you, He can do the same for you.