How can we apply "Christ the wisdom of God" in decision-making? Christ As Wisdom: Setting The Stage • Scripture never treats wisdom as an abstract idea; it personifies wisdom in Jesus Himself. • 1 Corinthians 1:24 declares, “Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God”. • Because He is wisdom, every decision that honors Him will be wise by definition. Why Christ’s Wisdom Matters In Choices • Human reasoning is fallen (Jeremiah 17:9). • Earthly “wisdom” is limited and sometimes deceptive (James 3:15). • Christ’s wisdom is pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit (James 3:17). • Aligning with His mind keeps us from regret and positions us for eternal fruit. Placing Decisions Under Christ’s Lordship 1. Submit The Issue – Acknowledge His lordship (Proverbs 3:5-6). – Verbally surrender outcomes to Him. 2. Search The Word – Look for direct commands, principles, or patterns (Psalm 119:105). – Note any clear prohibitions or endorsements. 3. Seek His Spirit’s Illumination – The Spirit reveals the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:10-12). – Pause, listen, and allow Scripture to confront motives. 4. Seek Godly Counsel – “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). – Choose counselors who themselves submit to Christ. 5. Weigh Eternal Impact – Will this choice advance the gospel? (Colossians 3:17). – Does it build others up or cause them to stumble? (1 Corinthians 10:31-33). 6. Decide In Faith – “Everything that does not come from faith is sin” (Romans 14:23). – Once Scripture, prayer, and counsel align, move forward confidently. 7. Rest In Sovereignty – Trust His ability to redirect (Proverbs 16:9). – Give thanks whatever the outcome (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Daily Practices To Cultivate A Wisdom-Shaped Mind • Read a gospel paragraph and a proverb each morning. • Memorize verses related to current decisions. • Journal prompt: “How does this situation display Christ’s character?” • Fast occasionally to sharpen spiritual focus (Matthew 6:16-18). • Keep a list of answered prayers to remember His faithful guidance. Illustrative Walk-Through Decision: Accepting a job offer in a new city. 1. Submit: “Lord, this job belongs to You.” 2. Search: Does the role compromise biblical ethics? Is relocation hindering fellowship (Hebrews 10:25)? 3. Spirit: Sense a growing peace while praying (Philippians 4:6-7). 4. Counsel: Mature believers affirm the move fits gifting. 5. Eternal Impact: Opportunity to serve a smaller church plant. 6. Decide: Accept in faith, finalize logistics. 7. Rest: Trust God for housing and new friendships. Encouraging Promise To Hold “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him” (James 1:5). Because Christ Himself is our wisdom, every believer has an inexhaustible well to draw from, ensuring that every decision—large or small—can radiate His glory and goodness. |
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