Ten Questions

From Walking in the Light by Neil Anderson via the Life Lesson in my Devotional Bible

These are ten questions you'll want to ask yourself and pray about when you're faced with a decision. The first five are generic. They represent moral issues and godly wisdom that are normative for all times. The next five are questions that you need to ask when facing a change in direction. Let's take a look at what each question entails.

1. Have you prayed about it? We aren't supposed to ask God to bless our plans; we are supposed to ask God for His plans.
2. Is it consistent with the Word of God?
3. Can I do it and be a positive Christian witness?
4. Will the Lord be glorified? Am I seeking the glory of man or flory of God? Am I doing this to be noticed by man or am I seeking to please the Lord?
5. Am I acting responsibly? God doesn't bail us out of our irresponsibility. He will let us suffer the consequences of our sings and irresponsibly choices. But when we are faithful in little things, He will put is in charge of greater things.
6. Is it reasonable? God expects us to think. His guidance may transcend human reasoning, but it never excludes it.
7. Does a realistic opportunity exist? Closed doors are not meant to be knocked down. If you have a hopeless scheme let it go. If it isn't God's timing, wait. If a realistic opportunity exists, and all the other factors are in agreement, then take the plunge.
8. Are unbiased spiritually sensitive associates in agreement? Be careful not to consult only those who will agree with you. Give your advisors permission to ask hard questions. Don't be afraid of no answers. If it isn't God's will, don't you want to know before you make the mistake of acting impulsively?
9. Do I have a sanctified desire? Don't think that being in the will of God must always be an unpleasant task. The joy of the Lord should be our strength...Is this a desire to satisfy a lust of the flesh, or a Spirit-filled desire to see God's kingdom established and people helped?
10. Do I have peace about it? This is an inner peace. In the world you will have tribulation, but in Christ we have assurance of overcoming the world. Is the peace of God guarding your heart and your mind?

If you have been able to answer yes to all ten deciding factors, what are you waiting for?