How do I apply biblical principles for decision making?

Charles Stanley

If we have accumulated and analyzed the data, have sought out other viewpoints, and have asked for God's direction, we can step out in confidence.

Decisiveness is one of the most sought-after qualities in a business environment. Firm, wise decisions can make the difference between success and failure, prosperity or austerity.

Biblical Principles for Decision Making

Although all decisions must be made in the light of God's sovereignty and control of the future, the Scriptures do provide us with some solid biblical principles upon which we can make sound determinations.

We must make sure we get all the facts. It is amazing how many decisions are made without gathering all the pertinent information. Facts give us tangible means by which we can start an informed decision-making process.

However, facts alone are not enough. Once we have compiled the information, we must use discernment to sift through the data. What lies behind the numbers and statistics? What forces are at work to contribute to this array of material? Discernment looks beneath the surface, analyzes, asks questions, and investigates.

The Berean Christians were said to be more "fair-minded" than their Thessalonian contemporaries because they "searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so" (Acts 17:11).

Seeking the astute counsel of well-informed associates or friends is also an important step. Others see clearly where our vision is fogged. They can sense danger when we are complacent. "Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety." (Proverbs 11:14) However, we must be careful not to abdicate our own responsibility at this point. The counsel of others is to be weighed but not substituted for our personal judgment.

While the counsel of others is meaningful, the counsel of God is vital. Whatever decisions we face--factory orders, job recruitment, budget forecasts, personal guidance--are important to God because we were created to glorify Him in every area of life, including our decisions. Once we have invited Jesus Christ to reign in our lives, we have entered into a dependence on Him for wise guidance in business life as well as in our personal lives.

That counsel comes through deliberate prayer and conformity to the principles of Scripture. Prayer brings the matter before God's throne, and His Word provides the guidelines within which we can make a right decision. God wants to be part of our decision process. To leave Him out by ignoring prayer and the truths of Scripture denies us the privilege of God's perspective, which He is always willing to share.

Take Courage to Act

Once we have done all of the above, the decision must be made. That calls for courage, which means we are willing to accept the risks involved. A decision always brings consequences. Some hesitate at the crucial point of action because they are afraid of failure. However, if we have accumulated and analyzed the data, have sought out other viewpoints, and have asked for God's direction, we can step out in confidence. If we fail, we learn and trust that God will use our error in a positive way.

Trust God with the Unknown

Occasionally, factors beyond our control or knowledge will affect our decisions. At that point, we must rest in the omniscience of God who holds the future in His hands. We cannot be responsible for what we do not know, but we are obligated to make informed, wise decisions to the best of our abilities. The rest lies with God.

For further insights, read the following passages:
Deuteronomy 6:5
1 Samuel 23:1-13
1 Kings 12:15
2 Chronicles 15:12
Nehemiah 10:28-29

This material taken from "PRIORITY PROFILES for Today's Workplace"
Copyright © 1989 by Charles F. Stanley
IN TOUCH MINISTRIES®, ITM, Inc. All rights reserved. Used with Permission