Making Decisions That Matter: Finding God's Will in the Unknown

Making Decisions That Matter: Finding God's Will in the Unknown

Life is full of crossroads. Some decisions feel monumental—where to live, whom to marry, which career path to pursue. Others seem smaller but still weigh on our minds—how to handle a difficult relationship, whether to take a risk, or how to navigate an unexpected change. As we step into a new year, the path ahead can feel uncertain, filled with questions that don't have obvious answers.

The early church faced their own moment of uncertainty. Jesus had just ascended into heaven, leaving His followers in a peculiar waiting period. They had witnessed the resurrection, received instructions to be witnesses, and now found themselves in an upper room—120 believers gathered together, processing what came next. They had lost one of the twelve apostles to betrayal, and they needed to fill that vacant position. But how would they know God's will in this situation?

The Foundation: Prayer, Obedience, and Community

Before the disciples even addressed their dilemma, they did three essential things. First, they obeyed Jesus' command to return to Jerusalem and wait. In moments of uncertainty, obedience to what we already know matters deeply. We don't always need new revelation when we haven't yet acted on what's already been revealed.

Second, they gathered together. The 120 believers didn't scatter in confusion or retreat into isolation. They understood that the body of Christ needs each other, especially in uncertain times. There's strength in community that we simply cannot access alone. When we face the unknown, surrounding ourselves with fellow believers provides encouragement, perspective, and accountability.

Third, they devoted themselves to prayer. Acts 1:14 tells us they were "continually united in prayer." This wasn't casual or occasional—it was sustained, unified, and purposeful. Prayer always precedes movement in the kingdom of God. Before anything significant happens in our lives or in the church, prayer must lay the foundation. As John Bunyan once said, "Prayer is a shield to the soul, a sacrifice to God, and a scourge to Satan."

When God Surfaces What Needs Addressing

In the midst of their prayer, an issue rose to the surface: the vacancy left by Judas' betrayal and death needed to be filled. Sometimes in our times of prayer, God brings to light matters we've been avoiding or haven't yet recognized. He surfaces issues in our relationships, character, or circumstances that require attention.

This is why creating space for God to speak is so critical. Our culture bombards us with noise—notifications, social media, endless content competing for our attention. But if we never silence the external clamor, how can we hear the still, small voice of God? How can He reveal what needs to be addressed in our lives?

Starting With What You Know

When Peter stood to address the situation, he didn't begin with speculation or guesswork. He started with Scripture. He quoted Psalm 69 and Psalm 109, applying their principles to the current situation. The disciples knew from Jesus' own words in Matthew 19:28 that twelve apostles would sit on twelve thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. They needed to fill the twelfth position.

This reveals a crucial principle: God's concealed will should always be discerned based on God's revealed will. When facing decisions where the path isn't clear, we start with what we do know. Scripture provides the framework, the boundaries, and the principles that should guide every decision we make.

We don't need to pray about whether to forgive someone—Jesus already told us to forgive. We don't need to wonder if we should make disciples—the Great Commission is clear. We don't need to question whether we should live by faith—Scripture repeatedly calls us to trust God. Many times, the "unknown" decisions we face should be filtered through the known truths of God's Word.

The Gospel Ramifications of Our Decisions

The disciples weren't just filling a vacancy for administrative purposes. They needed someone who could be a witness to the resurrection—someone who had walked with Jesus from His baptism through His ascension. This was about advancing the gospel mission.

Every decision we make has gospel ramifications. Where we choose to live determines who our neighbors will be and who will witness our lives. The job we accept affects our schedule, our stress levels, and our capacity to serve others. Whom we marry either enhances or hinders our ability to fulfill God's calling. The way we spend our money reflects what we truly value.

Before making major decisions, we should ask: How will this affect God's plan for redemption in and through my life? Will this decision help or hinder my witness? Does this align with the mission God has given me?

Pathway Lights for Decision-Making

Drawing from the disciples' example, we can identify clear steps for discerning God's will:

1. Start with prayer. Not just a quick prayer, but sustained, listening prayer where God can surface what needs attention.

2. Seek guidance in community. Gather wise counsel from people who walk closely with Jesus. Don't seek spiritual advice from those who don't follow Christ.

3. Search Scripture for wisdom. Let God's Word guide and interpret your circumstances. Look for principles and patterns that apply to your situation.

4. Evaluate practical circumstances. Gather all relevant information. Consider the logistics, the timing, the resources, and the impact on those around you.

5. Make a decision with peace. After prayer, counsel, scriptural reflection, and practical evaluation, trust God's sovereignty and move forward with confidence.

6. Consider the gospel impact. Always ask how this decision affects God's redemptive plan and your witness to the world.

Moving Forward in Faith

After the disciples gathered information, prayed, and sought God's direction, they identified two qualified candidates—Joseph called Barsabbas and Matthias. They prayed again, asking God to reveal His choice, and cast lots (a practice common in the Old Testament). The lot fell to Matthias, and he was added to the eleven apostles.

Notice that they reached a point where they had to make a decision and move forward. Perfectionism can paralyze us, causing us to endlessly second-guess and search for more certainty. But faith requires action. After we've done our due diligence—prayed, sought counsel, examined Scripture, and considered the circumstances—we must trust God's sovereignty and take the step.

Living as Sent Ones

The word "apostle" simply means "sent one." While we may not be capital-A Apostles like the original twelve, every believer is a lowercase-a apostle—sent into the world as a witness. This identity should shape every decision we make.

We're not just choosing jobs; we're choosing mission fields. We're not just selecting neighborhoods; we're identifying communities where our light can shine. We're not just managing schedules; we're stewarding opportunities to reflect Christ.

As you face decisions this year—big or small—remember that you have a God who leads. He hasn't left you to figure things out alone. He's given you His Word, His Spirit, His people, and His presence. Trust that He will guide you as you seek Him, and make your decisions in light of the gospel that has transformed your life.