Knowing the Will of God - Part 2

The bible has a peculiar and special place in the lives of all Christian believers. One of these is its place for individual and personal decision-making. The role of the scriptures in this regard speaks to us with the necessity of understanding the difference between the bible speaking directly and indirectly. In dealing with His chosen people, God gave a conditional promise that "If you...(will do these things)....I will heal you". Their decision was based upon whether or not they believed Him. It is the same today. Romans 3 teaches that our decisions may be made on the basis of what He has said, or they made be made on the basis of pride, which leads to defense of self. The latter can lead to pure misery.

Consider these three propositions about Biblical Guidance:

There is no way to know God's will and receive His guidance apart from the scriptures. There are NO prophets today.
There are scriptural principles and practices to cover all areas of life. This contradicts in many cases those who proclaim that the Bible is silent in many areas. We seek principles applicable to all decision-making.
The Scriptures speak directly and indirectly by implication. They help us make either/or (yes/no) choices or they give us a limited number of equally legitimate choices. This is so important to understanding and applying the principles of life.

Also, consider these steps for good decision making:

Gather all the facts - list pros and cons. You will have to work at this. Godly decision-making can be hard, hard work. No counselor ever proclaimed that every decision was easy.
Search out all the principles, examples, etc. of Scripture that you can find which have a bearing on the decision. Seek the counsel of a qualified Biblical counselor or pastor. The context and and also specific instructions are important.
Apply these to the pros and cons and the various options.

Like Jeroboam, you may find it is necessary to seek godly counsel to supplement the wisdom that the Holy Spirit brings to you by means of prayer. Man is not omniscient.
If narrowed down to two equally good decisions based on biblical principles, you may decide on the basis of preference. Self is involved, but not before seeking and searching the Scriptures. If I am searching for a job, and find two that meets my objectives on the pro side of things, it is not a sin to have personal preferences
If the question of possible sin does arrive, the Biblical principle of "the holding principle" should be used....see below.

Most believers in decision-making can arrive at the place of "equally legitimate choices". Then, you may say, "I just cannot decide". Here are two points to help one in decision-making:

Some principles will help you narrow options more than others. Principles are given that relate to effects on family, the future, continuing service to the Lord, etc.
There may be more than one biblically legitimate option.

An illustration of biblically based principles can be found in getting married:

Take a biblical look at the single life. The Bible proclaims the advantages of being single. Do this first.
Define biblical standards for marriage partner. Is he/she a believer? Are they walking with the Lord? If not, waiting is a good principle. My silly pastor states emphatically that blonds are a personal preference!
Evaluate the person's sensitivity to biblical authority and influence. Are conflicts common?
Look for evidence of spiritual growth, obedience to God's Word. Is there evidence of oft complaining or giving of thanks?
Look for principles of solving problems biblically.
If more than one option remains, than choosing by preference is not sinning.

Do not misunderstand God's Will by ignoring the Scriptures. Experience, emotion, catastrophes and undue influence of others can lead you astray. These three points should be considered:

The Holy Spirit does lead the believer in decision-making by means of prayer and in response to those who are in submission to Him. God's leading in Romans 8:14 and Galatians 5:18 are examples. Other example are the Philippian's response to trials in 4:15, and Paul's response when warned of the dangers of going to Jerusalem.
The peace that passes all understanding of Colossians 3:15 as it rules in the heart is a faith principle that applies only to believers. Corporate prayer and the fellowship of the saints is a great encouragement.
Sometimes, usually rarely, circumstances (a fleece) can bring you to a point of decision...but NOT apart from the bible. For the most part, we consider circumstances to be unreliable.

Last, but not least, there is the HOLDING PRINCIPLE.

This is the article and sustainer by FAITH. Romans 14:23 certainly indicates that we must "be convinced in our own mind". This conviction comes in the heart, based on the Word of God, and is entirely of faith. That which is not of faith is sin.