“Krino” is also translated “to decide”. To decide means “to cut off every alternative”. We make decisions almost every waking moment of the day. Most of them are automatic and we don’t need to think about them. Others need much more consideration. The Father has blessed you with a mind so you can use it. Here are 7 steps to help you make God-honoring decisions:

1. Ask Him for wisdom. Once you ask, move on the wisdom He provides. It’s faith that pleases Him, so know He’ll give you the wisdom you ask for. James tells us:

If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. James 1:5-8 (New Living Translation)

2. Understand the situation. Examine the situation and figure out what decision you have to make. An open question that accurately reflects the real decision problem you’re facing will help you get going. What do I do about x?

Joyful is the person who finds wisdom,
the one who gains understanding.
For wisdom is more profitable than silver,
and her wages are better than gold.
Proverbs 3:13-14 (New Living Translation)

3. Brainstorm. Figure out all the possible choices you can make. Don’t let this overwhelm you; instead let your creativity flow. Don’t edit your thoughts here. Get the input of others.

Plans go wrong for lack of advice;
many advisers bring success.
Proverbs 15:22 (New Living Translation)

4. Count the Costs. Pick one or two plausible solutions and weigh the possible outcomes. List the positive and negative results of each choice. Listen to what the Spirit says. Sometimes He’ll tell you things that don’t make sense until you’re farther down the path.

“But don’t begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it? Luke 14:28 (New Living Translation)

5. Consider what the Bible Says. Ask others for Godly counsel. Take the counsel of trusted advisors with great consideration, but know there may be some who are affected by your decision that don’t want their lives to change. Don’t let this stop you if you have already clearly heard the Father.

Make plans by seeking advice;
if you wage war, obtain guidance.
Proverbs 20:18 (New International Version)

6. Make a decision. Follow the “path of peace”. This is not to say you’re following the path of least resistance. It means you have the peace of the Father that doesn’t always make sense.

You will keep in perfect peace
all who trust in you,
all whose thoughts are fixed on you!
Isaiah 26:3 (New Living Translation)

7. Evaluate your decision. Don’t evaluate too soon. You may choose to blame the Father or think you’ve misheard. Spend time in His presence and listen to His voice instead of the voices from the situation you find yourself in.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek his will in all you do,
and he will show you which path to take.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (New Living Translation)

Here’s a prayer to help you get started in this process:

Father, I know when I ask for wisdom, you’ll give it. You’re a good God who gives good gifts. Help me decide with discernment. Point me to trustworthy advisers. I will follow where Your peace leads. I know you direct my steps and I thank you for caring about my every need.

Now walk boldly in the direction you decide on.