Yesterday we began discussing life at the crossroads. If you did not get a chance to read that post please refer to this link: The Crossroads Series: Strategies for Decision-Making. The Crossroads, in life, can be defined as a crucial time in a person’s life when a decision must be made. Let us be real, we all have these moments. Moments that are emotionally intense and draining. Moments that make you want to pull your hair out. These are defining moments.
Which way should I go?!
When at a crossroad we have the option of making a u-turn and heading back, make a right or left turn, or be courageous enough to move forward. People who are paralyzed by fear will decide to turn around and head back. People who are easily sidetracked will make a right or left turn. And people who are focused will continue to move forward.
What should I do?!
During the initial post, two strategies were expanded upon:
1. Meditate
2. Seek for Help
Decisions should never be taken lightly, no matter how big or small they may be. In addition to the aforementioned strategies, we should also consider the following:
3. Write it Out – After you’re done meditating and talking it out, I recommend that you sit down and write a list of pros and cons. Writing a list of pros and cons allows you to see your thoughts on paper. Let me warn you, it is easy to skew the list in your favor. During this exercise you must be honest and impartial. Do not skew the list in your favor.
4. Pray – After you’ve cleared your mind through meditation, sought after help, and written it out, be sure to pray. Let God guide you in this discernment process. Prayer allows us to communicate with God and through our devotional time he will communicate with us. Do not just ramble on and on about your situation to him, take a moment to let him speak to you. After all, our Father knows best.
5. Look at the Map – The map that I am referring to is the Bible. If you do not have one, there are some great resources out there such as YouVersion, which is completely free. Psalm 119:105 states “your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path (NLT).” He provides enough light for us to see our next three steps.
And there you have it folks. These are the five strategies that I personally use when at the crossroads in life and need to make decisions. Decision-Making is hard work. It takes a step of faith and that is why I personally include my faith in the process.
Personally, I like to stay focused and move forward. This decision takes lots of faith and therefore I heavily rely on the strategies I mentioned, not just in ministry but also in everyday life.
I do not pretend to have all of the answers but do believe that these strategies can be useful for everyone. I would love to hear from you. When at the crossroads, how do you make decisions?
Jonathan is the author and founder of ConsiderUp.com. He is a husband, a father, and a pastor. He loves Jesus, his family, writing, and playing golf.
Jonathan is proud to serve alongside his wife Sileni as associate pastors at Bethesda Church in Clermont, Florida. For over 13 years he has been heavily involved in ministry and church leadership preaching a message of grace and restoration.
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