1. Revelation: Check the Bible.
It is the Lord who gives wisdom; from him come knowledge and understanding. He provides help and protection for those who are righteous and honest. —Proverbs 2:6-7 (GNT)
Ask: What does God say?
2. Information: Get the facts.
All who are prudent act with knowledge… —Proverbs 13:16 (NIV)
Ask: What do I need to know?
3. Consultation: Ask for advice.
Plans succeed through good counsel; don’t go to war without wise advice. —Proverbs 20:18 (NLT)
Ask: Who could advise me?
4. Selection: Set a goal.
Look straight ahead and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked. —Proverbs 4:25-27 (NLT)
Ask: What’s my goal and milestones?
5. Evaluation: Count the cost.
It is foolish and rash to make a promise to the Lord before counting the cost. —Proverbs 20:25 (TLB)
Ask: Is it worth it?
6. Preparation: Plan for problems.
A prudent man foresees the difficulties ahead and prepares for them. —Proverbs 22:3 (TLB)
Ask: What could go wrong?
7. Confrontation: Face your fears.
Fear of man is a dangerous trap, but to trust in God means safety. —Proverbs 29:25 (TLB)
Ask: What am I afraid of?
8. Initiation: Step out in faith.
Trust the Lord with all your heart, and don’t depend on your own understanding. Remember the Lord in all you do, and he will give you success. —Proverbs 3:5-6 (NCV)
Ask: Where do I need to trust God.
Ice Breaker: What’s the longest trip you’ve ever taken?
1. Before we make a big decision, we should look, first, at God’s Word. Where do we have the tendency to go to first? Why is that?
2. “Plans succeed through good council.” – Proverbs 20:18. What is “good council?” Who are some people in your life that you could go to for good council?
3. What do you think of this statement: “You’re not courageous if you’re not afraid at the same time?” Does it inspire you? Why or why not?
Going deeper:
What are some decisions coming up that you have to make? In the weeks to come, go through the steps that Pastor Jeff talked about today. As you do, journal about each step and see where God may be leading you.