DECISIONS...
"They all joined together constantly in prayer.“ Acts 1:14
I'm so confused! I don’t know what to do?” Have you ever asked yourself this question? You might be asking it right now. Possibly, this picture represents your prayers... “Lord, which way should I go?” How do you make the right decision according to God’s will for your life?
Some choices are obvious. If it compromises what God’s Word tells us, then the decision is clear. God will never lead us to make a choice that contradicts His Word. Some decisions are better-
best choice. For example, let's say you are offered another job with a promotion and a location change. This is a great opportunity, but will be difficult for your high school children. Your current job offers terrific benefits, but the chance for advancement is limited. How do you make the right choice? Let’s go to the scriptures for our answer.
In Acts 1:15-26, the disciples were faced with a situation. They needed to fill Judas’ spot on the team. Peter reminded them of Psalm 109:8: "May his days be few; may another take his place of leadership." A challenge to make the right decision lay before them. Two men met the criteria for the position — Barsabbas and Matthias. Both men were qualified and willing to fill the spot, but only one was God’s best for the position. The answer comes in Acts 1:24-25: And then they prayed, Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which one of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry? Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias, so he was added to the eleven apostles."
They prayed, trusting God to show them the best man. They didn’t sit around debating about it. They moved forward, seeking the Lord’s will. God calls us to pray and move forward in our prayers. What a powerful example of prayer!
We need to act in the same way today. Bring everything to Jesus. Trust His answer, in His timing, in His way! Pray with boldness when faced with making a decision. Trust that God already has the answer. Boldly allow yourself to learn about prayer through the decision-making process.
Oh, I can hardly contain myself as I am writing these words. God will show you His answer... I promise!
PRAYER CHALLENGE
Faced with a decision? Pray! Now, move forward in God’s will as He reveals His plan. Ask the Holy Spirit to remind you to watch for God’s answers to your prayers. Never forget to praise Jesus, for the glory belongs to Him!
Carla McDougal
My Prayer Chair, "Decisions" pg. 63