Making Decisions In Uncertainty Намуна

Be Honest With Yourself and Remember How You Are Made.

One of the things I can fall prey to is not being honest with myself. Sometimes I want to be seen as perfect (or at least very put together) so much that I end up presenting a false self to others and even myself. I hide what I really want, how I really feel, and what I really like. Like Julia Roberts in Runaway Bride, who doesn’t even know what kind of eggs she likes because she always eats the kind her boyfriends do, I need to be honest with my own likes and dislikes. 

Oh friends, hiding is not helpful when it comes to making hard decisions, let alone living life. Let’s be honest with ourselves about how we really feel and who we really are and what we really need. Often when we stop trying to manage the opinions of others, many decisions become clear. 

How God designed YOU is a big deal in making a decision. He gave you a certain set of gifts and talents that are different than anyone else. Does this decision support how you are made? Or does it push up against it? You also have a unique situation and family dynamic. If you are single this decision may look different than if you are married. You must consider your personal strengths and your areas of struggle. Your children and spouse may be involved in your decision, and therefore the gifts, circumstances, and needs of other humans have to be considered.

Over the years I have collected some questions that help me make a hard decision. I encourage you to pray and then spend some time today answering each question regarding your decision-making process. Answer honestly. It isn’t helping anyone to not be the authentic person God made you to be. The world does not need a dulled shadow of yourself; the world needs the most fully alive version of yourself you are able to give. 

Six Decision-Making Questions: 

1. What are the risks in saying no? In saying yes? 
2. Am I making a choice out of fear? If so, what am I afraid of?
3. Have I given this enough time and thought? Am I pulling the trigger needlessly, too early? 
4. Does this bring me and my family closer to our long term goals? 
5. Am I overly focused on certain people’s opinions? Am I worried what they will think of my decision, either way? 
6. Is God asking me to sacrifice something in this decision? Can I trust Him to provide for me if I make that sacrifice? 

God, I come honestly to you. Help me to brush off the layers of fear that come from the opinions of others. Help me to live by faith. Help me to remember how You made me and that my gifts, talents, abilities, likes, and dislikes are all part of the equation in front of me.