Ambiguous Decisions

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
Romans 12:2 (NIV)

Do you ever feel like you want direct guidance for decisions, but you can’t find it in the Bible?

Many of the decisions you make today are not explicitly addressed in the Bible. There are no biblical answers to questions like, Should I take this job? Should I buy this house or that one? What school should I attend? Should I save this money for retirement or give it away? Should I marry this person? 

These questions have multiple acceptable answers within the scope of God’s commands. And yet, it is true that He cares deeply about every little detail of your life. So is there guidance to help you navigate life’s ambiguous decisions?

The lack of clear and direct answers can be frustrating. But if God were more specific in His instructions, you would tend to focus more on what you do rather than what you love. If you could obey like a robot, you would have little need for a heart turned completely to the Lord.

So the first step to making any decision is an orientation of your heart to the Lord. That’s why today’s verse contrasts being “conformed” versus being “transformed.” When you turn your heart to the Lord each day, He gradually changes, or “transforms” your thinking to be more like His.

Being “conformed,” however, takes little effort. It happens automatically because the thinking of this world is the water you swim in. When you do not intentionally orient your heart toward God each day, your mind will automatically be conformed to the thoughts, desires, and priorities of the world.   

Today’s verse gives you confidence that as you come to Him, you will be able to discern God’s best decisions in your life. 

The second step to making godly decisions is to purposefully ask for God’s guidance and wisdom. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” The Lord promises to help you align your decisions with His truth. 

God will not spell out every decision for you. He allows you to think, consider and invites you to depend on Him. As you learn to trust Him more, you will be transformed into someone who thinks and makes decisions that honor Him and align with His will. 

You will never have all of the answers, and that is okay. As long as you follow your Good Shepherd, He will never lead you astray.

Prayer: God, thank You for not giving me all of the answers in black and white. Help me to mature in my discernment so that I can know Your will. Amen.