Many people here in the U.S. are facing a lot of major decisions right now. Parents are trying to decide whether or not to send their children back to school. Teachers are trying to decide whether to return to their jobs in the fall. And our entire country faces one of the most contentious political elections of our generation in November. How do we as Christians make wise choices in the midst of chaos? 
Here are 5 things I do whenever I need to make a major decision:

1. I get alone, get quiet and ask God for wisdom.
   1. James 1:5 - “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
   2. Isaiah 30:21 - “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.””
2. I look for answers in the word of God.
   1. Psalm 119:105 - “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
3. I seek advice from sources/people I trust.
   1. Make sure your inner circle includes people who are mature, discreet and willing to disagree with you.
   2. Proverbs 27:6 - “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
4. I trust my God-given discernment.
   1. The Bible says that wisdom and knowledge are two of the gifts of the spirit (1 Corinthians 12).
   2. For example, recently I was presented with two investment opportunities that looked good on paper, but something about them just didn’t feel right. 
5. I let God’s peace lead me.
   1. Philippians 4:6-7 - “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
   2. 2 Timothy 1:7 - “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (KJV)
   3. This is arguably the most important step in making major decisions. If you have gone through all the other steps to get here and still don’t have peace, that is almost always a red flag.
   4. Either your lack of peace is being caused by your own fear (which needs to be cast out), or it’s a warning from God about your decision.

Action Step: Are you facing a major decision in your life right now? If so, take some quiet time to follow the steps listed in this episode. Make sure to write down what you discover during each step, whether it’s a prayer or a conversation with someone you trust.