Sermon Recap
This past Sunday Pastor John preached on "The Way of Decision Making”. He taught through making decisions that align with God's will, which is crucial for anyone who is following Jesus on the "Narrow Way." While decision-making is an everyday reality for everyone, it requires intentionality and discernment.
Pastor John addresses the challenges of decision fatigue, when it becomes overwhelming to make even small choices. He also warns against making decisions while emotionally compromised—when tired, angry, or emotionally fatigued. Instead, true decision-making for Christ-followers should be understood as "discovering and doing God’s will." This approach results in a Life with few regrets.
Two common decision-making pitfalls are discussed: delaying decisions due to fear and overanalyzing (discerns but never decides) and making impulsive, emotionally driven choices (decides without discerning). In both cases, decisions are often based on personal happiness or emotional needs rather than God’s guidance. Romans 8:5-6 and Psalm 23:1-3 illustrate the importance of setting our minds on spiritual rather than worldly things, reminding us that God’s way brings life, peace, and guidance.
Pastor John outlined a biblical foundation for decision-making with four key steps:
Desire God’s Will Above Your Own - Our choices should prioritize God’s will over our desires. Psalm 40:8 and the Lord’s Prayer exemplify this commitment.
Know God’s Heart Through His Word - Familiarity with Scripture helps us recognize God’s values and language, making it easier to discern His will.
Listen to the Holy Spirit - Instead of following our hearts, which can be deceitful, we should seek the Spirit’s guidance to confirm that our desires align with God’s will.
Seek Wisdom from Mature Believers - Surrounding ourselves with wise, godly counsel helps us gain perspective, make clearer choices, and remain accountable in our faith journey.
By following these steps, believers avoid impulsive, self-centered decisions and grow in their walk with Christ. Making godly decisions through this process honors God, brings blessings, and strengthens our path on the Narrow Way.
Key Scripture
Read through these passages together:
Discussion Questions
Discuss together, pushing yourself toward transparency. The more we are authentic and humble with one another, the more we can grow in Christ.
Reflect on your decision-making process: Which of the two pitfalls—"discerning but never deciding" or "deciding without discerning"—do you most relate to? How can focusing on "discovering and doing God’s will" help you avoid these pitfalls?
Decision fatigue and faith: How do you think decision fatigue impacts your ability to make choices that align with God’s will? What are some practical ways you can turn to God for renewal and guidance when you feel overwhelmed by decisions?
The role of community in decision-making: Have you ever sought advice from mature believers when making a difficult decision? How did their wisdom impact your choice? What qualities do you look for in people you trust to help you discern God’s will?
Aligning with God’s will: How can we develop a deeper desire to prioritize God’s will over our own? In what ways does knowing God’s Word and seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance influence our everyday decisions?
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, help me to live each day with my heart, my mind, and my eyes fixed on you. Help me and lead me in all my decision making to honor you! Help remind me to take the time to seek your heart on all my decisions and Holy Spirit lead me each day as I follow You on the narrow way.
Life Application
Pause and Pray Before Deciding: This week, make it a habit to pause and pray before making any decision, big or small. Ask God to align your heart with His will and to give you clarity and peace about the choice. Practicing this pause can help you avoid making impulsive, emotionally-driven decisions and instead foster a habit of seeking God's guidance.
Seek Godly Counsel: Identify one or two mature believers you can turn to for wisdom and accountability in your decision-making. When faced with a challenging choice, reach out to these trusted individuals to discuss your options and pray together. Building a support network of godly counsel can help you gain insight, avoid regret, and stay committed to walking in God’s will.
Don’t Forget
Operation Christmas Child collection week Nov 18-25
Family Meeting- Christ in the Holidays Nov 24
Additional Resources
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