We all want to make good decisions. And if we’re honest, every one of us has choices we wish we could take back—some merely embarrassing, others that left scars or set us back. This series invites us to make better decisions with fewer regrets by asking five key questions before any choice, big or small.
Why Decisions Matter
We rarely know what—or who—hangs in the balance of our decisions. But we do know this: our decisions determine the direction and quality of our lives.
“The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.” (Proverbs 27:12)
Your decisions shape your story. They touch your future and ripple into the lives of people around you.
Decisions Become Our Story
Think about it: buying a first car, choosing an apartment, selecting a partner, deciding to start at the gym, joining a life group. Some choices are big, some small, but each one becomes part of your story.
Here’s the challenge: good decision-making is complicated. We aren’t guided only by experience and intelligence; our emotions and appetites get a vote. We can “sell ourselves” on bad ideas, and once our hearts are set, it’s hard to say no—even when wisdom says otherwise. That’s why Scripture urges us to set our minds on things above (Colossians 3:1–2) and to love God with heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30).
Why We Struggle
Nobody plans to complicate their life. The problem is many of us don’t plan not to.
Nobody plans to blow up a marriage—yet every divorce follows a string of unwise decisions.
Nobody plans to raise irresponsible children—yet poor choices trend them that way.
Nobody plans to drown in debt—yet many arrive there one swipe at a time.
Private decisions always lead to public outcomes.
Taking Responsibility
From the beginning, we’ve struggled to own our choices. In Genesis 3, Adam blamed Eve, Eve blamed the serpent, and no one took responsibility. But the truth remains: your fingerprint is on the future.
Consider how others’ choices shaped your life. What if a parent or grandparent had chosen differently? Their private decisions shaped your present. And your choices will shape someone else’s tomorrow.
Five Questions That Change Everything
Use these as a filter—slow down, ask them prayerfully, and listen for the Spirit’s nudge (James 1:5; Proverbs 15:22; Proverbs 3:5–6):
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The Integrity Question: Am I being honest with myself… really?
Self-deception sabotages wisdom. Name what’s true before God.
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The Legacy Question: What story do I want to tell?
Decide now what you’ll be proud to say later.
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The Conscience Question: Is there a tension that deserves my attention?
If something feels off, pause. Don’t override holy hesitation.
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The Maturity Question: What is the wise thing to do?
Not “Is it wrong?” but “Is it wise in light of my past, present, and future?”
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The Relationship Question: What does love require of me?
Love is the Jesus-standard for decisions (John 13:34–35; 1 Corinthians 13).
Asking these consistently makes sure your “fingerprint on the future” is worth celebrating.
Jesus’ Example
Even Jesus faced excruciating decisions. In Gethsemane, He wrestled with sorrow and suffering, yet chose the Father’s will (Matthew 26:36–46). He showed us that the best outcome isn’t personal comfort but the glory of God—and the salvation of many.
Your Decisions Matter
God promises abundant life, blessing, goodness, and mercy (John 10:10; Psalm 23). But we must choose paths that align with His wisdom. We can’t blame God, the devil, or anyone else for our decisions. By the Spirit’s help, we can walk wisely and write a different story.
Your Turn
Where do you need to stop and ask one—or all—of these five questions before your next decision? Take time today to think, pray, and invite God into the process. Better decisions lead to fewer regrets and a future worth celebrating.
