How Do I Make A Wise Decision?
What do you do when you don’t know what to do? We are in a time where we need an upgrade in wisdom to be able to honor, stay safe, and represent the kingdom. In the midst of crisis, we need clarity. Ephesians 5 says to not be unwise, but wise, making the most of every opportunity. We need the very wisdom of God.
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Ephesians 5:15-17
Do you make decisions based upon your circumstances? It can be difficult to make a wise decision when there is so much noise around you. Whether it’s negative news, constant scrolling on social media, or just normal life responsibilities. God is inviting us to tap into His wisdom in the middle of our crises.
How do I know the difference between wise & unwise?
1. Look at your memory stones. Remember what God has done for you in your past. Based upon my past experiences (what storms have you overcome) and based upon where I’m at right now (what season of life are you in?) Based upon your future circumstances (where do you want to be in 5 years?). What is the wise thing to do?
2. Wisdom follows peace. Should I hurry to the grocery store and buy food for the next 2 months? Stop and ask yourself, “Based upon my past, present, and future, what is the wise thing to do?”
3. When you don’t know what to do, you need to know where to go. Who am I connected to that can help me make a wise decision? Proverbs 19:20 tells us that wisdom seeks counsel.
When you follow wisdom, you can be confident that there’s going to be peace! And if not, lean even further back into the Father’s presence so you can receive His peace.
How do I discern God’s voice when there is so much noise in the world?
If you’re like me, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed with all of the news regarding the current global pandemic. It’s a lot of bad news and very little good news.
1. The first thing I do when I’m having a difficult time discerning God’s voice, I go back to my identity. I always find rest when I go back to being a son of Papa God. Why is this important? It helps me to remember that God is my provider, my peace and I can trust Him.
2. Secondly, identity flows from intimacy. Don’t forget your robe of righteousness and your ring of authority. Create a new routine and just spend time in His presence, read through the psalms, and become familiar with His voice. Ask Him personal questions like “Father, who do you say that I am?” or “Papa, what do you think about this global crisis?”
3. When God speaks, He speaks in His language. What do I mean by that? God speaks a very fruitful language, often responding to us in love, peace, patience, kindness, etc…
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…Galatians 5:22-23
When all of these things come together, I know I’m abiding in Christ and can hear his voice clearly. I can easily recognize fear and anxiety when I’m at peace and spending time with my heavenly Father.
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7
The Father is saying, “I’ve given you a spirit of love because you are lovable. I’ve given you a spirit of power because you are powerful and I’ve given you a spirit of a sound mind.” Wisdom flows from that sound mind.
How do I spend or invest my time, talent and treasure?
I do believe that time is one of our greatest assets in life. It can be easy to burn up all of your energy on negative news or spending too much time on social media. You have an opportunity to sharpen your talents in this season.
1. Feed yourself well! Spend your time feasting on things that give you life. Listen and watch things that give you faith, hope, and love. I believe it is important to stay informed about the current global storm, however, I’m making sure not to spend more than 1 hour a day watching negative news.
2. We are called to be wise stewards of our resources. When we steward what God has given us, then we are able to be a blessing to the people around us.
3. Blessed to be a blessing! What if we started a kindness or a generosity movement? Can you see the ripple effect it could have on your community? You can simply buy someone’s groceries or mow your neighbor’s lawn.
Focus on who God is instead of who is not. Don’t get distracted by what the enemy is doing!
Remember to listen to that still small voice, see his face. He is not nervous about what is going happening on a global level. If you enjoyed today’s blog, you can learn more about the need for wisdom on my most recent youtube video here.