Choosing God's Way: Making Decisions That Honor Him and Bless Your Family

As a pastor, I often see families wrestling with decisions that can shape their lives profoundly. Choices about careers, relationships, parenting, finances, and even how to spend their time can weigh heavily on the heart. The decisions we make not only affect us but also our loved ones and our walk with God.

My Experience: A Costly Lesson in Making the Wrong Decision

A few years ago, I learned a hard lesson about decision-making, one that I’ll never forget. It started with a friend of mine who had recently made tens of thousands of dollars investing in real estate. His success story was exciting and inspiring. He told me how he had purchased a home in a newly built community, flipped it, and walked away with a hefty profit.

One day, he invited me to join him in his next investment. There was another development of single-family homes being built, and he was confident we could make a substantial profit again. He assured me that this was a great opportunity, a “can’t-miss” chance to get in on the ground floor of something big.

I was intrigued—and tempted. It all seemed so promising. I had no experience in real estate, but his confidence and success made me believe this was a solid move. So, without much research or careful consideration, I made the decision to invest.

The Wrong Decision

I purchased a home in this new community, far from where I lived. It wasn’t meant to be a place I would move into; it was purely an investment. My friend’s enthusiasm convinced me this was the right thing to do.

But just a short time later, the housing market crashed. The bottom fell out of the real estate market, and instead of the profit I had hoped for, I was left with a property I couldn’t sell and a mortgage I couldn’t afford to keep up with.

The losses were staggering—not just financially but emotionally and mentally. I lost a lot of money and time, and my confidence took a serious hit. I questioned my judgment and felt like I had failed.

Looking back, it’s clear I didn’t approach the decision the right way. I let excitement and the promise of quick gains cloud my thinking. I didn’t seek God’s guidance, nor did I thoroughly research the investment. I jumped in without truly counting the cost, and it led to one of the most challenging financial situations I’ve ever faced.

The Bigger Picture: Lessons for Life

While this experience was a financial mistake, it opened my eyes to how easily we can make wrong decisions in other areas of life. It’s not just about money; many of us struggle with poor choices when it comes to:

Our Health: We might skip regular exercise, indulge in unhealthy eating, or neglect rest, thinking we can make up for it later.
Relationships: Sometimes, we rush into friendships or romantic relationships without truly considering whether they align with God’s will or values.
Careers: It’s easy to chase after jobs or opportunities that promise wealth or status, only to find they leave us feeling empty or burned out.

Bad decisions often stem from the same mistakes I made: acting impulsively, relying on someone else’s assurance without seeking wisdom, and failing to involve God in the process.

Moving Forward with Wisdom

While the experience was painful, it taught me valuable lessons about decision-making that I now try to apply in every area of my life:

I should have Prayed Before Acting: Instead of rushing into a decision, I’ve learned to pause and seek God’s guidance. Matthew 26:41 reminds us to “watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation.” When we ask God for wisdom, He helps us discern what’s best.
I should have Done my Homework: Proverbs 20:15 says, “There is gold and abundance of costly stones, but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.” Whether it’s an investment, a career move, or a health decision, taking the time to gather information and evaluate options is crucial.
I should have sought Wise Counsel: My mistake was listening to one friend without seeking advice from others who might have offered a different perspective. Proverbs 12:15 tells us, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.”
I should have Examined my Motives: Why are you making this decision? Is it out of pride, fear, or the desire for quick rewards? Proverbs 16:2 reminds us that “all the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit.”
I should have Been Patient: Decisions made in haste often lead to regret. Psalm 37:7 advises us to “be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.” Waiting isn’t easy, but it often leads to better outcomes.

Redemption Through God’s Grace

One of the most beautiful things about God is that He can redeem our mistakes. While I lost money and confidence in that investment, I gained wisdom that has shaped how I approach decisions today. More importantly, I’ve come to understand that my worth isn’t tied to my successes or failures—it’s rooted in my identity as a child of God.

If you’ve made a bad decision—whether in finances, relationships, or any other area—don’t let it define you. Bring it to God. Confess where you went wrong and ask for His forgiveness and guidance. He is faithful to restore and redirect us, even when we’ve veered off course.

Encouragement for Families

As families, we’re constantly making decisions that affect not just ourselves but those we love. Whether it’s choosing how to spend time together, making financial plans, or deciding how to handle challenges, our choices matter.

By making decisions that honor God, we not only avoid unnecessary pain but also create a legacy of faith and trust in Him.

My experience with real estate investment was a costly mistake, but it was also a turning point. It taught me the importance of seeking God’s will, doing the necessary work, and making decisions with wisdom and humility.

We all face decisions that have the potential to shape our lives for better or worse. By choosing God’s way, we can avoid unnecessary pitfalls and embrace the blessings He has for us.

If you’ve made a wrong decision, take heart—God is ready to guide you back to His path. Trust Him, seek His wisdom, and make every choice an opportunity to honor Him.

The Bible offers us clear guidance on how to approach decisions with wisdom, faith, and discernment. Let’s explore how we can choose God’s way when making decisions that honor Him and bring blessings to our families.

Making Decisions That Honor Him and Bless Your Family

1. Pray First

Matthew 26:41 reminds us:“Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

Prayer is the foundation of godly decision-making. It aligns our hearts with God’s will and opens us to His guidance. Before making a choice, bring it to God in prayer. Lay your options before Him and ask for wisdom, clarity, and peace.

Prayer also protects us from the temptation to rush decisions or rely on our own understanding. It shifts our focus from what we want to what God desires for us. As a family, develop the habit of praying together before making big decisions. This not only fosters unity but also models dependence on God for your children.

2. Look to the Word of God

2 Timothy 3:16-17 teaches us:“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”

The Bible is our ultimate guide for living. When faced with a decision, ask yourself, “What does Scripture say about this?” God’s Word provides timeless principles that can illuminate our path and help us discern His will.

For example, decisions about integrity, generosity, forgiveness, or humility can often be clarified by looking at Jesus’ teachings. If a choice contradicts God’s Word, it’s a clear sign to reevaluate.

Encourage your family to regularly study the Bible, so its truths are readily available when decisions arise. A family immersed in Scripture is better equipped to choose God’s way.

3. Seek Counsel from Faithful Followers of Jesus

Proverbs 12:15 reminds us:“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.”

No one has all the answers. Seeking advice from mature, faithful Christians can provide perspective and wisdom. Whether it’s your pastor, a mentor, or a trusted friend, godly counsel can help you see blind spots and consider options you might have missed.

Be humble enough to listen to others. Sometimes, God uses His people to speak truth into our lives. Family decisions benefit greatly from involving others who can offer encouragement, accountability, and prayer.

4. Be Patient

Psalm 37:7 says:“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way.”

In a culture of instant gratification, waiting on God can be difficult. But impatience often leads to poor decisions. God’s timing is perfect, even when it feels slow to us.

If you’re unsure about a choice, it’s okay to wait. Use the waiting period to pray, gather information, and reflect. Trust that God is working behind the scenes to guide you. Teach your family that patience isn’t passivity—it’s active faith in God’s wisdom and plan.

5. Have All the Facts

Proverbs 20:15 reminds us:“There is gold and abundance of costly stones, but the lips of knowledge are a precious jewel.”

Making informed decisions is part of wise stewardship. Before committing to a path, gather the necessary facts. Avoid rushing into choices without understanding their implications.

For example, financial decisions, such as buying a home or changing jobs, require careful planning. Teach your family the value of research and due diligence, ensuring your decisions are not just faith-driven but also informed.

6. Examine Your Motives

Matthew 6:1 warns us:“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them.”And Proverbs 16:2 adds:“All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit.”

Our motives matter deeply to God. Before making a decision, ask, “Why am I choosing this?” Is it to honor God, bless others, or fulfill selfish desires?

Decisions made out of pride, envy, or fear often lead to regret. By examining your heart, you can ensure your choices align with God’s values. Encourage your family to make decisions with integrity, humility, and love.

The Power of Decision-Making

The ability to choose is a precious gift from God. Every day, we make countless decisions—some small, like what to eat, and others life-changing, like career moves or parenting choices. These decisions, whether big or small, have a profound impact on our lives and our faith. They shape who we are, influence the direction of our families, and reflect our trust in God’s guidance. Recognizing this responsibility helps us approach decision-making with prayer, wisdom, and a desire to honor Him in all we do.

In today’s fast-paced world, families often fall into “decision traps” that make wise choices harder. Comparing ourselves to others can leave us doubting our path, while too many options can lead to confusion and indecision. Perfectionism pushes us to delay action, waiting for the “perfect” solution that may never come. And the constant pressure to succeed can overwhelm our judgment, making it harder to hear God’s voice. By identifying these traps, we can turn to God for clarity and make decisions with confidence and peace.

Top decision-making families understand the importance of simplifying their choices, prioritizing their core values, and taking decisive action even without having all the answers. They recognize that waiting for 100% certainty often leads to "analysis paralysis," where overthinking prevents any progress. Instead, they rely on faith and wisdom, moving forward confidently when they have about 80% of the information they need. This balanced approach helps them make thoughtful, timely decisions that align with their values and trust in God’s guidance, rather than being stalled by fear or perfectionism.

Avoiding Regret

Regret often arises from decisions made in haste or without proper preparation. To avoid this, focus on three key areas. First, prepare yourself with prayer and knowledge. Seeking God’s guidance and equipping yourself with the right information can provide clarity and confidence. Second, consider timing—don’t rush decisions out of impatience or delay unnecessarily out of fear. Waiting on God’s timing often leads to the best outcomes. Lastly, maintain perspective; no decision will ever be entirely perfect. Recognize that striving for perfection can paralyze you, while trusting God allows you to move forward in faith.

Even when mistakes happen, God’s grace offers redemption. Poor choices don’t have to define your future. Instead, view them as opportunities to learn and grow. Teach your family that decision-making is a journey where faith and trust in God play a vital role. By leaning into His wisdom and love, you can let go of regret and walk forward with hope, knowing He can use even missteps for your good and His glory.

Living Out Godly Decisions in Your Family

Making godly decisions isn’t just about steering clear of mistakes; it’s about reflecting Christ in every choice we make. Our decisions serve as a testimony of our faith and an example to those around us, especially our families. One practical way to live this out is by modeling decision-making rooted in God’s guidance. As parents, take the lead by showing your children how to pray about choices, seek wisdom from Scripture, and consult trusted advisors. When children witness this process, they learn to lean on God’s wisdom rather than their own understanding.

Another essential practice is fostering open discussion within the family. Create a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and perspectives about decisions. This not only strengthens family bonds but also encourages collaborative decision-making that aligns with God’s principles. By engaging your children in these conversations, you’re teaching them the value of seeking wise counsel and listening with humility.

Celebrate the blessings that come from making godly decisions. When your family experiences the fruits of obedience, such as peace, joy, or provision, take time to acknowledge God’s faithfulness. Share your gratitude in prayer together, and use these moments to remind your children of God’s goodness. Celebrating these successes reinforces the importance of choosing God’s way and inspires your family to continue walking in faith with every decision.

Conclusion: Trusting God with Your Choices

Decisions are opportunities to grow closer to God and reflect His glory. Whether big or small, every choice can honor Him and bless your family when approached with faith, wisdom, and humility.

As you face decisions, remember these guiding principles: pray first, look to God’s Word, seek wise counsel, be patient, gather the facts, and examine your motives.

Above all, trust that God is with you every step of the way. His guidance is perfect, His timing is flawless, and His love for you and your family is unending. When you choose His way, you’re not just making a good decision—you’re building a legacy of faith and obedience.

May your decisions reflect the joy and peace of walking with Christ, and may your family be blessed as you honor Him in all you do.

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