I've got a difficult decision to make.And, I really don't want to make a decision in this case. I really don't!
I suppose the details of the decision might make a difference as I seek help or guidance. But, then again, I'm not really sure the details make a difference in this case. In general terms, decisions are decisions, right? The details are insignificant, right?
How do you settle such difficult decisions? How do you decide which choice is best, or if either choice is right?
In this situation, various people are involved and the decision will have long-term ramifications. I don't want to hurt someone's feelings over my decision, but a decision is needing to be made and it needs to be made quickly. And, as those decisions are made, people will object to the choices, no matter what choice is made.
I know the value of prayer and I've prayed. I know the value of talking out these types of decisions with people who know you best. I've done that.
Still, there's no resolution to the problem. And, from where I sit, there doesn't seem to be a quick resolution to this issue. Nor easy resolution. Or even a reasonable resolution.
So, here I sit. Waiting on God. Waiting on some sign. Waiting on some words of wisdom. Waiting.
I'm sorry, I'm not the most patient person. I will admit that. I like to determine what the problem is, study the options to solving the problem, and then take action. Sometimes, those actions come slowly, some times they come swiftly. But, I do like finding and implementing solutions.
But, in all honest, there are times solutions don't seem to come at all. Not at all.
What do you do?
How do you choose?
How do you know whether the choice is from God or from your own impatience?
At this point in time, I'm not sure there are answers or that I even need answers from others.
I'm just struggling to find some 1, 2, 3 solutions, I suppose.
Thanks for listening. Or, at Eeyore often said, "Thanks for noticing me!"
Since I am feeling somewhat spiritual right now I would say you should cast lots and let the chips fall where they may. Or you could put out a fleece. Or you could play "Eeny meeny miny moe" and eliminate options as you go. Or you could take some "Unwanted" advice. I have been where you have been Steve. I once had two churches interested in me-one I had already been voted on and one that I interviewed with (more captivating actually). When I suggested to a friend that I was unsure of what God wanted he said, "bill take the one that has already chosen you. Even if it is the wrong one in the long run, God will not let you go through it alone." He was right. I can look back and see it may have been the right one (since I do not know what the other was like) but it led me to meet someone who became a catalyst for my next move. I made some mistakes there and learned a lot but also saw God in it. I am sure you have done all the pros and cons of the decision. Take seriously what your bride thinks. (Call me if you want in impartial observation. Email me at pastor@ovcf.org for phone number and I will call you) 'Course then again you could just put your finger to the wind and see which way the wind is blowing. :) I will be praying for you.
ReplyDeleteSteve,
ReplyDeleteThank you for the privilege of listening to you. As far as noticing you goes.... that happened some time ago and the prayers for you started then. They will continue on way or another no matter what decision you make.
We know a thing or two about making difficult decisions... And one thing I can tell without question - if they were easy decisions to make - did they require any real faith? There are certain things I can do with my eyes closed. There are many many more that I simply must rely on Him alone. We're facing difficult decisions currently ourselves.
May we each be guilty of praising Him in the moments... for whether or not the road is paved with rocks or smooth as a baby's bottom - He has gone ahead.
I look forward to hearing how you continue to seek God's face, how He answers, and how you respond...
Bill, I really like the fleece idea. Then again, if I thought I could grow a fleece, I'd use it on top of my head to cover the bald spot! (My bride says she likes the bald spot--but, I'd still love to have a head full of hair!)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the prayers and words of wisdom.
Thanks Camey...obviously, you have a real gift for prayer and encouragement. I appreciate the support and value your insights, prayers, and visits to the site.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was trying to decide whether to stay in D.C. and continue my career or move to Texas and get a PhD, it was the toughest decision of my life.
ReplyDeleteI went back and forth and back and forth for quite some time. I consulted Godly friends and I learned two valuable lessons.
1) Sometimes you have to create faith. You can't just wait for God. You have to step out knowing that He will ultimately guide you.
2) NO decision you make will be so horribly wrong that God can't correct it. In the end, God will either accept your decision or change it through you.