Family Month – Navigating Decisions

Navigating Decisions Every day we make decisions. Some are small. Others shape the direction of our families, our relationships, and our future. The question isn’t whether we’ll face decisions, but where we’ll turn for wisdom when we do. In Week 2 of NAVIGATE, we dive into James 1:5 and discover that God doesn’t expect us to navigate life alone. He invites us to ask Him for wisdom, and He promises to give it generously, without shame or condemnation. We’ll also discover the difference between living by principles and living by preferences. Principles are rooted in God’s unchanging Word. Preferences are driven by our changing feelings. Mature faith doesn’t ask God to rewrite His truth for our situation. It asks Him how to faithfully live out the truth He’s already revealed. “You don’t need all the answers. You need access to the One who does.” James 1:5 Discussion topics Icebreaker:What’s one of the funniest or worst decisions you’ve ever made? (Keep it light… wrong turn on vacation, bad haircut, impulse purchase, terrible first car, etc.) HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word? Read James 1:5-8 together. James tells us that if we lack wisdom, we should ask God. According to Sunday’s message, how is wisdom different from simply having knowledge? The sermon made a distinction between principles and preferences.  How would you explain the difference in your own words? Why do you think James follows the promise of wisdom (v.5) with a warning about being double-minded (vv.6-8)? What connection do you see? HEART – How did it make you feel? When you’re facing a difficult decision which one are you naturally more tempted to follow? God’s principles? Your feelings? Other people’s opinions? Whatever seems easiest? Why? Is there an area of your life where God has already made His will clear through Scripture, but you’ve been hoping for a different answer?  Remember that in the sermon on Sunday Pastor David said, “Immature people make decisions based on preferences. Mature people make decisions based on principles.” Where do you see yourself growing in this area? HANDS – What are you going to do with it? Which area of life do you most need God’s wisdom in right now? Money Parenting Marriage Friendships Work Purity Time Something else? Is there one decision you’ve been delaying because you’ve been waiting for more clarity, when God may simply be asking you to obey what He’s already revealed? Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next