We have already made more than enough mistakes by interpreting life according to the patterns of a world that lives apart from God. It is time to reassess how effective those patterns truly are and to learn what Yehovah, our Father, is revealing to us.
Decision-making is one of the most sensitive areas of life. Some decisions have minor consequences, but others bring profound changes whose effects extend not only to our own lives, but also to the lives of those around us or those who depend on us. These effects can last for years or even be permanent. Decisions of such weight cannot be taken lightly; they require discernment and the ability to choose wisely.
For this reason, the most important question that every child of Yehovah — conscious and grateful for having been rescued — must learn to ask is:
“Father, what do You want me to do? What is Your will in this situation?”
We already know the pain and disappointment that come from trusting the so-called “guaranteed solutions” offered by the world system. We have seen how hope fades after repeatedly listening to empty promises from political, social, and even religious leaders. So why insist on following the same path?
The difficulty arises when we genuinely desire to know Yehováh’s direction, yet find it hard to hear Him. We struggle to discern His voice and His guidance because for many years we were trained to be led by our own impulses or by voices that were not His.
This is not a matter of basic morality. We all know that stealing, lying, or harming others is wrong. The real challenge lies in everyday decisions: Should I attend this event? Is it wise to make this purchase? Is this the right time to take this step? For these situations, there are clear principles that help us discern Yehováh’s guidance.
Principles for Making Wise Decisions
What Does Scripture Say?
(Deuteronomy 28:13; Joshua 1:8–9)
When Scripture clearly defines a course of action, there is nothing to debate. Obedience allows no exceptions or nuances. Yehováh’s Word does not relativize His instructions. It does not say, “You shall not steal, unless the other person has plenty,” nor “You shall not lie, unless it is a harmless lie.” No. Whoever steals is a thief, regardless of the amount. Whoever lies is a liar, regardless of frequency. When Scripture is clear, the response is simple: obedience.
The Voice of Yehováh
(Exodus 15:26; 19:5)
Yehovah speaks in various ways, but primarily through His revealed Word. However, not every specific life situation is addressed explicitly in Scripture. In such cases, He may guide us through thoughts that prompt reflection, evaluation, or consideration of options we had not previously seen. At the same time, the enemy also uses the mind to suggest harmful paths, which is why discernment is essential.
The difference lies in the nature of those thoughts. Yehovah never leads us toward self-pity, resentment, vengeance, deceit, or gaining unfair advantage over others. The way to remain protected is to walk in obedience to the Torah — Yehovah’s Instructions. Doing so places us under a spiritual covering that helps us discern the origin of the thoughts that enter our minds.
A Renewed Mind
(1 Corinthians 2:16; Romans 12:1–2)
For years, we lived in darkness before knowing Yeshua. Yet even after choosing to follow Him, many have justified disobedience through traditional Christian theology that denies the ongoing relevance of Yehováh’s commandments. This hardens the heart and dulls our ability to hear His voice.
That is why renewing our way of thinking is essential. We must learn to think as Yehovah thinks — to see life and the world from His perspective. As the apostle Shaul teaches, transformation comes through the renewal of the mind, enabling us to discern Yehováh’s good, pleasing, and perfect will.
The mind is renewed when we turn to the Word, memorize it, meditate on it, and obey it. This process requires decision, effort, and consistency, but it is possible. As our thinking aligns with Yehováh’s, our impulses and reactions begin to reflect His character, and discerning what to do in critical moments becomes clearer.
The Counsel of Mature Followers of Yeshua
(Psalm 1; Exodus 18:23)
There are no shortcuts to life experience. One cannot see life with the clarity that comes with age without having walked many years. This is where youthful self-sufficiency often deceives us. Young people may think that mastering technology makes them wiser than their elders, but that is simply not true.
For this reason, it is wise to seek counsel from those who have walked faithfully in obedience to Yehovah and whose lives bear clear fruit. Such people are equipped to offer perspective and guidance. However, they must never replace your own responsibility before Yehovah. Decisions remain yours. You must evaluate them, pray over them, and seek confirmation from Him, just as Yitro advised Moshe.
Avoid at all costs the counsel of those who do not know Yehovah or His Word, for their advice will inevitably lead in the wrong direction.
Circumstances
Circumstances can influence decisions, but they must never be the sole determining factor. At times, favorable circumstances may be used as a test, permitted by Yehovah, to examine our obedience. At other times, adverse circumstances may test our conviction and perseverance rather than signal that we should abandon our course.
Therefore, while circumstances matter, they must always be weighed alongside Scripture, discernment, prayer, and obedience.
These principles provide a solid foundation for learning to seek and discern Yehovah’s guidance. As they are practiced consistently, spiritual sensitivity grows, and over time additional insights emerge that help us walk as Yeshua walked.
Yehováh does not begin by telling us what to do, but by teaching us how to listen—because true guidance flows from obedience, not impulse.