Three Principles for Biblical Decision-Making

Every leader understands that decision-making is a central part of leadership, but rarely are the hardest decisions in the most convenient moments. In fact, sometimes the circumstances surrounding a decision can leave leaders little time to consider the foundational values for their decision-making. Because of this, biblical leaders must proactively seek to lay a foundation for decision-making that will equip them to respond biblically in critical situations.

“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” - Matthew 7:24-27

Build upon a foundation of intimacy with God

Biblical decision-making should be built upon a foundation of intimacy with God. Throughout Scripture, we are reminded of the deep importance of building and maintaining a deep relationship with God. In John 15, we’re reminded that the fruit of our lives is rooted in abiding with Christ. In James 1 we’re told to seek God’s wisdom and He will provide it. As leaders, we face difficult and often critical decisions regularly. Preparing for these decisions must begin with an ongoing, authentic relationship with God. Consistent prayer (1 Thess 5:17), faithful study of the Word (Psalm 119), and wise counsel (Proverbs 15:22) each provide a biblical leader with a firm foundation for making any decision.

Consider the decision in light of your vision, mission, and goals

“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” - Matthew 7:24-27

Apply the decision and mobilize others to see it carried out

The wise accept instruction, but fools argue and bring trouble on themselves. - Proverbs 10:8

Fools find no pleasure in understanding, but delight in airing their own opinions. - Proverbs 18:2

The final measure of success for most decisions rests in the outcomes of that decision. As biblical leaders, we should seek to examine the implementation of a decision prior to making a choice. This by no means implies the decision should be planned out in totality, nor does it suggest that all possible outcomes must be considered.  Instead, as a leader, we must consider three key implementation and mobilization practices prior to making a decision.

First, when considering a given decision, how effectively could the vision for this decision be communicated?  Effective mobilization requires the ability to communicate the vision clearly.  Likewise, when leaders make a decision, this decision will need to be articulated clearly to others.  Second, a decision should recognize the strengths and weaknesses of those who will be mobilized to accomplish it.  If those who will carry out the decision lack the time, resources, or ability, it may be the wrong decision.  Finally, a leader should consider if the decision can be evaluated after the fact in light of the stated goals. Learning and growing as a leader means evaluating the outcomes of a decision. Take time to recognize the ease or difficulty with which the decision could be evaluated after the fact. 

Biblical decision-making is founded on an intimate relationship with God, guided by a biblical commitment to goal setting, and accomplished through effective mobilization of others. When the moment for a decision comes, let’s be leaders who are well rooted in our decision-making and who see it through a biblical framework. In the hardest moments of leadership, our firm foundation of intimacy with God will give us hope and peace. When we are faced with choosing between many good options, we will know and practice effective goal-setting so that we can choose the best over the merely good. As we lead and make decisions, we will remember our role as leaders and mobilize others to help see the vision accomplished.